New observatory

[xelasnave]

Progress report.

At about this time yesterday I started adding concrete to the piers and star pickets on the ground connecting the three piers..managed eight bags last night..I got up at 4 am and was able to start at 6 am and added a other 8 bags of concrete...then had a rest for breakfast and meds then went to town and bought another eight bags of concrete plus 10 short star pickets to give everything a bigger footprint ..all up 11 short ones and 12 big ones....added 6 more bags and kept two bags in reserve to go in the centre after what is there dries.jt has to be dry so I can drag the remaining two bags to the central area...however I think it is all ok and finished really even without the additional two bags
Pretty happy with it..it is ruff because I skipped form work which I think will actually work better...but it will do the job..that's about 450 kg with many star pickets grabing to soil.... and only for the 80mm on an eq5...but the RASA can go on it as I used the same measurements.

But best of all I feel great..no pain ..yet..and it looks clear outside...I did not think I would be this fit.. but the fact is most of the work was on my belly so it gave my feet a good rest.

Alex

[Startrek]

Alex,
That’s a mammoth effort all things considered
Working on your stomach is a killer on your neck and arms too
Doing it the hard way is how great things are achieved
To set my 225mm pipes at the correct orientation for true south and tripod leg spacing ( 897mm ) I cut a triangle template out of white corflu and marked a centre line with texta, worked a treat ( I kept the template for posterity, it’s in my garage )

Well done !!
Best
Martin

[glend]

I recall that when building my footing and pier, in a manual labour fashion similiar to yours (with lots of rebar and star posts), it dawned on me that nothing short of a nuclear strike on my observatory, or the expanding Sun, is ever likely to remove that concrete. I have a contingency plan, should I or my children ever sell the house, the pier can be converted to a Bird Bath by the addition of a top dish (And I actually already have one from Bunnings sitting at the rear of my block).
Pity the unsuspecting future buyer who might try to remove it.;)

[Startrek]

When I’m gone , the kids or grandkids will sell the holiday home with Dome and equipment already sold and removed , sell the property with the Obs deck as a backyard Sundeck and BBQ area , just need some timber pucks to fill the 3 pier holes ,easy

The concrete piers and footings underneath would require dynamite to bust it all up and allow to remove the debris in wheel barrows

I thought of the future when I’m gone and kids want to sell the holiday house gets sold

I may even sell the Dome and gear beforehand to make it easier for them

[LonelySpoon]

I made my pier/footings big enough to fit the legs of the EQ8 - 30 bags+ rocks & rebar below ground, 20 bags above ground. (I didn't have the genius to think of one mini-pier for each foot!)

It too is now part of the planet and not going anywhere in a hurry.

Nothing beats a firm foundation. It would literally stop a tank, come the revolution.

Neville
LSO

[oska]

That's gumption for ya. :thumbsup:

[Crater101]

That's probably the best part of the description. Well done! I forget who it was that said it, but there's a quote out there that says "Heroism is endurance, for one moment more!"



A heroic effort mate.


EDIT: The quote comes from George F. Kennan, American Historian (1904-2005)

[xelasnave]

That's why laying the fake wood floor was such a killer...after the first four stripes I regreted it but had to go on...but my trouble is once down I need something to hold on to to get back up...for this job I had a star picket stuck in one of the bearers so I could slither to it and get up...
I was looking at it late yesterday and feel a sense of achievement cause it looks mammoth now that all the piers are all there.

Alex

[xelasnave]

You could take it out and replace it with three piers...heck it wouldnt take much:lol:

You make me feel guilty for not adding rock...I suppose I could add rock.

I was imaging with the RASA last night for a while..pre pier I could not be in the observatory when imaging as just coughing ( which I do a fair bit cause of my condition) had the stars all over the place..last night I noticed no effect when I slam the door closed..says it all.
Happily the EQ8 and the EQ 5 can use the same piers and given this last set up is even more robust than the first I may place the eq 8 on it...for various reasons there is a better view in that corner.
Alex

[xelasnave]

Thanks ...it is not that much really I just dramatize things in an effort to encourage others who are worse off.
But sincerely thank you when things get a bit too much I will remember your words..always.

Alex

[xelasnave]

Some small things...

The new wheels need machining ( a little too wide) and are on their way to get a flash trim on a lathe rather than risk using my delicate astro angle grinder on them;)

I had a major concern that the holes in the wheels were smaller than the current holes for the axles...all I could imagine were problems to overcome that issue..either bushes or welding on a piece of steel to carry the smaller holes however yesterday my assistant removed the nut ( he could do that as he could climb a ladder something that is beyond my ability) and we found the bolt to only be 12 mm ...My measurement was in the dark by trying to access the bolt over the runner using a gauge not sure if it was on the bolt or not and clearly my measurement was way off not being able to see what I was doing.

He also nailed down the deck outside the observatory ..not that I could not do it but just never got to it..he saw it was a trip hazzard and rightly fixed it.

Days ago my daughter gave me two 200 watt solar panels that she had replaced on her project so assistant added them to the two panels I have at the van ( which I consider just an extention of the observatory where I sleep and process photos;) and being an electrical engineer corrected my connections with proper bits so now it is nice and proper.
I do need to build a frame work to hold the up but even laying on the ground I can see a good improvement in the power going to the batteries.

He also cut out the second fitting to make the winch drum carry two cables and I hope to trim it, drill bolt holes later today and see if the dual drum approach will work...I am not confident but if I am going to operate the roof remotely then I must solve this problem..plan B is to make a system around bike chain..probably motor bike chain..not only expensive but a huge job with fittings to hold sprockets etc...I want to avoid plan b so I am givingvplan A all I can.

The piers look good but I will let The new one rest for a while before I put the eq5 and 80 mm on to it..not much point really until the new Asiair plus units arrive,...but they will enable me to actually run three scopes..using lap tops I found it too busy to comfortably run just two...one of those things that sounds simple but in practice does not really go so well..just keeping three scopes focused without the Asiair approach would be a nightmare...with Asiair plus you don't even know..focusing is it's job you no longer even think about it...

The big spanner in the works is the mower threw a belt but on top of that I find water in the oil..how I don't know but today is an oil change as the mower place are booked out for three weeks ..the oil lubricates but can't be ideal..it looks like cream...and with the grass starting to grow I can't wait three weeks to cut it as the job will be huge.

So plenty to do but it finally is getting to a stage where I can see it coming up to where I wanted it to be.

Alex

[xelasnave]

And roof control is near finished;)
Just a few more bits...you can teach an old dog new tricks if you retain youthful enthusiasm...instead of telling myself I could not learn this stuff I told myself that I could and already I have a grasp miles ahead of where I thought I would be...I need more bits and very soon I will even know what they are:lol::lol::lol:

As to the programing it almost writes itself...

So all you old fellas who still fear a mobil phone or computer have a go it is much easier than you have convinced yourself that it isnt.

Alex

[xelasnave]

Ordered what I hope are the last bits to have all rigs working...a ZWO EAF to bring the 80mm into line with the other two and a 7 spot filter wheel to go on the 115mm to house the 2 inch filters that I bought for the RASA as I am sick of the mucking around with filter drawers... so RASA goes OSC..all this means I won't have to visit the observatory every time I need to change a filta on the RASA..the new filter wheel was eye watering expensive but was necessary else I would not have bought it...soon I am going to run out of money before I run out of time..hopfully both occurr together..a happy ending.

Both two drum style for the winches are ready to go but I have decided on getting thinner stainless steel cable which has a smaller diameter which hopefully gives the set up a better chance to work before I test them...I am not confident but I need to try as plan B is really not appealing ( motor bike chain etc)

I lost a day yesterday because I was crook but got the oil changed in the mower so I have my transport again but still must change the belt...thank goodness for YouTube as I had no idea how to change a mower belt but after a 10 minute video feel entirely confident
...other than I cant kneel so it will be another belly job I guess.

I really would like to get this remote control roof happening as last night I looked out at 1 am and really should have openned up but sooked out ..if the roll off was remote opening I would have another couple of hours data for M42.
AND I ordered a camera to be able to monitor the gear while in bed...

Other than that not much happening and apart from the belt fix I can't do more until more stuff arrives ...although I think the new computer will be finished today..was waiting on a scratch drive...
Might go to the hospital and check out this new problem.
Alex

[xelasnave]

Asiairs arrived:thumbsup:

Scratch disk arrived:thumbsup: and daughter will instal it later today when I visit.

EAF and wheel here Friday post office says so.

Organised at trip to hospital if things dont improve by tomorrow if I can get get the belt done;)


Alex

[xelasnave]

EAF and wheel arrived...so next set it all up and start testing...I never thought this day would arrive..once an idea now hands on reality to use.
Alex

[AdamJL]

Nice one Alex.

[xelasnave]

Well finally it is all more or less in place.

The new computer is set up and can manage all three rigs via Asiair plus .

I now have a new flash modem that helps out with net and WiFi and I have the monitoring camera up and working such I can check things from the van.

I have started adding wheels to the roll off roof at either end rather than trying to replace the old ones which is a big job and not necessary ..assuming the current plan works.

I can not make the dual drum winch system work and being able to manage the roof movement from the van just won't happen as plans A B and C won't work...anyways I will not bother until I have the new wheels installed and can assess the rolling resistance.

There are many small jobs still but the only issue is one guide camera that seems faulty...it plays up thru Sharpcap but maybe it will behave when working with Asiair plus...if not it will need to be replaced and as it is on the 80mm I can run unguided as that is what I have always done.

It is a pity it is so wet as I just don't feel like doing anything in the observatory and I certainly can't add the remaining two wheels...

It is so good to be able to look at the RASA on my tablet while laying in bed...I think that is all I will do today.
.
Alex

[strongmanmike]

Sounds like you are on top of it all Alex, well done....lying in bed controlling your rigs sounds attractive, hopefully I can emulate you :)

Mike

[Startrek]

Alex,
Well done on completing all those tasks, you must be pleased
Whilst the weather is bleak , maybe some reprocessing on your new super computer !

Cheers
Martin

[xelasnave]

Thank you gentlemen.

AND moreover thanks to everyone from here who has helped me over the years.

All my efforts have resulted in me dealing with problems entirely differently..once I would get excited, upset and confused resulting in often throwing my hands up and giving up..well let's say I did not give up but so often when responding in that earlier fashion that was so often what I would contemplate...however after many seemingly insurmountable problems being resolved, so often by the help from the members here, I now stay calm relaxed and determined in the face any new problem even if it presents as impossible for me to move past ....and in a week or two that problem has been solved and I am on to another one.

Again everything I have achieved is a direct result of the wonderful help from all the kind members here.

Sincerely thank you all.

I enclose a photo of my tablet screen showing the view..the 80mm is hard to see and perhaps I should add another camera looking back to the current one to get the 80mm in and another aspect on the other two...yes the cables need sorting out... don't they always?

Alex

[LonelySpoon]

must be as very satisfying feeling, Alex Well done.

Neville
LSO

[AstroViking]

Congrats on the observatory, Alex. I can only imagine what it feels like to have completed such a massive project.

All you need now are the clear skies, and then let the images roll!

Cheers,
V

[Crater101]

Well done young man! An ably completed project that should see you safely imaging for many years to come. Bravo!:2thumbs:

[xelasnave]

I find that I need two security cameras to adequately see all three scopes so I ordered another..there is no point in only half achieving what you want to do as the money spent is wasted so you have to bite the bullet and invest more else there is no point..not achieving what you set out to do is failure and can not be tolerated.

I have had to order another guide camera and another eqdirect cable due to failures...also two temperature sensors for the additional EAF units...and so I am over budget ...what one must accept with out getting upset is the most basic fact of life...all bugets go over where they predicted..thats the way of it so dont be surprised or annoyed just get on with it for goodness sake...and wringing ones hands does nothing other than detract from the joy that should be yours.

I have my assistant lined up to instal the remaining two wheels on Wednesday if the weather permits...I could do it but as my last effort has seen me more or less bed ridden since doing the first two it makes sense to just supervise....two hours labour is a small price to pay for happy feet.

I took delivery of a cheap tap and die set and added two threaded holes to the top rail on the RASA to mount the Asiair plus up there so I spent yesterday just doing that and relocating all the cables ...it will be worth the effort as getting at the cables and particularly the thumb drive is easier...maybe better wifi as well...so my $30 Tap and die set saved me buying a $85 bracket for the top rail..and it looks neater.

Today I hope to determine the back lash in the last two EAF units and also dial in the focus of the additional two guide scopes...using the one good camera between them...one guide scope will require some sorting out ..it is a 70 mm thing and I recall I need to add some rings or remove them..whatever..so best do it now rather than waste good imaging time when it arrives...I find the distant tree tops get close so little more adjustment is needed for the stars.

I would like a clear night to test everything working ..the three scopes, three Asiair units and control via the new desk top in the van...

I have decided that I will have to run the genny for imaging sessions as the current draw from the three scopes is considerable, not that I know but given the desk top can only run via the genny that makes it clear what must be done and rather than the batteries taking a beating each imaging session will see them receiving a good charging session...five litres of fuel is a small price to pay to deliver all that it will deliver...

So close now and I hope that with the arrival of the new cable and guide camera ( oh also a dew heater for the last guide scope) I don't have to spend another cent...however even as devestating this exercise has been it is no way as expensive as owning a wooden sail boat ..just mooring fees and annual slipping sees $10k gone and that is just the start...and the total investment probably is about the same as the toy red car.

Still I did go a little overboard in retrospect...but on my death bed I won't have any regrets that's for sure.

Thanks to everyone for following my journey as it really helps me posting here as it gives me some feel for what I have done and what I still need to do and above all I hope that others realise from my activity that building an observatory is doable for even someone as old as me with some serious health issues..it is so easy to talk yourself out of doing things..that's what we often do..and therefore we deny things that we should get to enjoy...I can give you a long list of why I should not but you need to realise your time is short and you can not waste a momment procrastinating...lack of money or time are just unacceptable excuses that you must not tell yourself...all that you need is commitment and determination .... and remember ...The world gets out of the way of a man who knows where he is going.



Alex

[Startrek]

Alex,
I enjoyed reading your last post especially the last few sentences.
I take my hat off to you Sir
So glad your now set up ready to image the Universe
We all need patience now due to this incessant wet weather , I haven’t used my South Coast Dome since mid July , but I do t worry about that , clear skies will come and when they do it will be so rewarding

Best always
Martin

[xelasnave]

Well I did not let the grass grow under my feet..I cut a bit on each trip to the observatory and the whole block is done..a bit here a bit there...it does not even seem like I have been mowing.

Anyways I called my assistance and said look the weather is clear let's get these other two wheels on as it may rain the rest of the week..so he got them on and the roof rolls with pushing with one hand.. exactly as I had hoped so I am very happy all that is behind me.

Worked out back lash on both EAF units and focused both guide scopes only to find I needed to change my order as the mini does not go with the guide scope I have..which I have done...and decided to relocate the Asiair on the 155 mm but have yet to drill and tap four new holes for asiair and guide scope...and best of all found a cable that replaced something that must have been over two mtrs. to go teo feet..and tidied all the cables on the RASA..but have yet to tidy the observatory as there are tools and cables etc all over..it is a mess..later tonight I guess.
But I need food and sleep...after that.

A good day.

Alex

[oska]

Great news. Thrilling even. Might you be able to apply your qi/ch'i to sorting out the weather? pretty please.

[xelasnave]

I have a good feeling about Wednesday night...

[strongmanmike]

Shhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! :eyepop:...ok, act natural, the weather gods didn't hear that....

Mike

[LonelySpoon]

Oh, heck- there was a raincloud outside my window, looking over my shoulder as I read that.

That's torn it!

Neville
Admiral of LSO

[AstroViking]

The weather gods hear all.

[xelasnave]

If it is only the weather Gods dont worry as I will sort them out ..Gods are easy to deal with as they are not real.

Last night showed as clear but the seeing was such that it may as well been raining...so tonight may not be useful.

I have just been to have my eyes checked and besides some small issue my caterats have not got worse in two years ..in fact he said I have very good vision...I did not complain about my colour blindness.... But what a great doctor/man..he collects fossils and interested in machine work and is about to make a forge so I was able to relate my experience in that field..he was all ears...like me he has many hobbies and a is very interesting chap...so all good..so now I am off to Tabulam Post Office for the last parts of the set up...but after the effects of the drops in my eyes go away as I really cant drive for a while.

So another great day.

alex

[LonelySpoon]

I hate any eye work. Not sure how I'd handle injections into the eye like the mother-in-law had monthly- I just had a cortisone shot into my ankle and that hurt like the bejeezuz.

Look after those eyes, mate!

Neville
Admiral of LSO

[xelasnave]

Well the gods did not turn up and I had two rigs running..I was in pain and could not stand so I just could not get the third rig running as it needed the new cable added and the new guide camera which seems nothing now but last night at the begining I was actually feeling faint and I seemed not to be thinking straight... lucky by 10 pm I felt much better probably because the activity made my body realise it just had to perform.

It was clear but the moisture manifested in my subs not being as clear as I know they should be...particularly on M42 the trap stars were there but not sharp and I was testing 5 second subs..which look good otherwise...

I had to change the pulleys to get the roof open which was a surprise given the work adding new wheels I thought I had fixed that problem.. the new ones allowed the cables to jam between the housing and the wheel,...a result of replacing the gal cable with thinner stainless...but happily I could sit down so I did not let it upset me..after the initial jam I was a little put out I will admit..as it left some of those nasty whiskers no one wants on a cable...I bandaged it and the bright side that is now a marker point for rolling out the cable..

The security camera fell victim to dew so that's something to fix..they will need little gaurd houses but not buying dew heater strips for them.

Funny I could not see the CSP with the HEQ 5 so no polar align..and it was way way out as I had just plunked it down ...before guiding I have never seen such long star trails but the guiding managed it..unbelievable..I did not think it would work so well...Happily the eq5 and 80mm is perfectly placed for M31 so I tested the ability to give Asiair a list of things to do so told it to do 7 filter changes ...and it automatically re focuses..life is wonderful..the time effort and heart break these Asiair units deliver means they are worth their weight in gold to me.

I could go on..oh one scare at 3 am trying to close up..the winch cable made contact with the little battery I was using to power a dew heater ( things do do there yet) and man talk about fire works and as I was befuddled I could not work it out and it was hard just to bend down and stop it...funny when you think about it.

So very very happy that two Asiairs would run off my phone..next time it will be all from the desk top or maybe just the tablet...tablet has advantages but a big screen to cull subs ...anyways all good.

Alex

[xelasnave]

Ok... the next thing to do...the roof I conclude can not be automated while I stick with the current system which has two 4wd winch set ups one to pull on one side..the cables just have problems..a pulley winch system I could not make work and I tried different cable and rope..added stuff to get traction...wasted weeks..same with trying to run dual drum set up..multiple attempts making fittings from this and that but no joy.. the problem comes from the cable winding on and off and the diameter changing..so it goes tight on side slack the other..hair pulling stuff with no solution.

A good friend pointed out a set up offered by Bunnings to automate a gate...now at first I thought they probably would be not strong enough as the tracks are nylon... anyways I found the manufacturer https://www.richmondau.com/product/diy-1200kg-sliding-gate-automation-kit-gtr156/ and
have emailed them for a price on their biggest unit...but looking at the roof actual fitting won't be easy..unless I can mount the drive motors upside down...I have asked them...the other option is to mount a beam hanging from the apex of the roof and at first I thought I was crazy to even think such a thing but it seems sheer brilliance now that I think of the various advantages...as I will need only one motor and the system will be much better balanced.

Also these units comes with a remote control and have switches that prevents disasters so that means I don't need to figure out how to adapt an Arduino which I expect would be hair pulling fun for me...

Recently I opted out three different nights because I feared cloud..one night it did not come..disappointing but if I can get this latest improvement working I would have no fear of opening simply because it would be easy both to open and close..while in bed even...the current set up is such a pain..you have to stop and rewind unwind relocate the hooks etc....and for me it is dangerous just walking about in such a mess trying not to bump scopes and balance myself without grabbing stuff...

So I made this post to drive me forward...get it done or be laughed off the forum...my credibility is on the line so I have no option but to deliver...plus I feel my efforts will be of help for others ..of course that is my main motivation..helping others my main game..

If anyone has any experience with the units that I am talking about or can link to something I would be most grateful.
Alex


So nothing has actually been done but I am hoping...to get this roof

[LonelySpoon]

Always something more to do or change, Alex. I doubt you would be laughed off the forum for failing to do something!

I looked at the gate idea too at one point back about 5 years ago and concluded they wouldn't handle the weight/load of a roof.

Remember, you can pick up most farm gates and carry them- can you do that with your roof?
Really good rollers with low rolling friction would help, of course, but I'm guessing it would need to be on the 'push with one hand and it keeps rolling' level.

Glad you got some observing in, too- it's really coming together.

Neville
LSO

[xelasnave]

Thanks for your thoughts Neville...and I know that I would be ,laughed off for failure you are just being kind and shielding me from the truth.

Well I could probably pick up my roof but certainly it would be beyond normal humans.

I put in new ( additional) wheels and it moves much better ..you can push it...I can push it..

At first I thought the system with the tracks too weak a set up but the thing I emailed about mentioned 2000 kgs so that gave me hope...the tracks are nylon but the primary gear I notice or at least seems to be steel...that could be a worry.

It is a case of I want so bad for this thing to be the solution that I will probably ignore your good advice and try it...I am desperate you see..perhaps if you tell me that 100% it can not be done then I will throw everything into proving that I can do it...well I just have to..I know there are people already saying that I can't do it...just watch the hits on this thread..just people checking in to see if I have failed...

I will clean the tracks ( meaning I will get someone to do that as I can not stand on a ladder unfortunately) as I noticed some rust and just that will add to the rolling resistance and goodness knows ..maybe there is dirt as well..bird crap..dead things...

They still have not replied to my email..I guess that means that everyone in their office is working on my problem.

Thanks again

Alex

[xelasnave]

$813-75 + GST for the big unit.
Alex

[AstroViking]

Hey Alex,

With regards to mounting the gate opener upside down, there's a fellow in Sweden who did just that, with the toothed rail mounted on the bottom of the rafters.

He has twenty or so videos on YouTube covering his entire build, from first dirt to completion.

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIHt9DBynFCYQXjF3SvU QTFGzFSXjn9KQ

Hope this helps...

Cheers,
V

[xelasnave]

Thank you very much Steve.
Alex

[xelasnave]

Wow...I received a call from Richmond Wheel and Castor, the company I am going to buy my gate tracks and motor from...
Talk about helpful and out of the blue..they were concerned that their product may not be suitable and did not want me to be uninformed on the matter.

I explained what I was doing and the guy , Robert, was just so helpful and time not a problem.

I wish every company that I dealt with were just so helpful and considerate.

I explained that I was confident that it would work but that I would not be blaming them if I could not get it together...

I explained that I liked to think that I had thought it thru and that I would be running the plans past a very competent engineer.

And I do hope it works out as I think what I have come up with could help many people with a roll off roof and remote opperation.

So I spent all morning and this afternoon making the plans..inch by inch screw by screw and think I have it all worked out...Will make the order on Thursday as I need to put cash in my astronomy toys account.

Needless to say I am very happy the way things are going ... it is wonderful and I am just so lucky.

Here is a link to the unit I hope will do the job.https://www.richmondau.com/product/240v-ac-powered-sliding-gate-motor-suitable-for-loads-up-to-2000kg-gtr212/
Alex

[dikman]

Interesting site, although their web pages are bloody slow loading! Are you sure that 2,000 kg capacity will be enough?:lol:

[xelasnave]

No not sure at all.

Alex

[glend]

Alex, your only moving a roof., not the whole building, it should be fine. The initial start up current will be the test, once it's moving there should be nothing to worry about; unless you have a snow load up top. I am sure you know how to estimate the roof weight, so I won't make any suggestion.

[xelasnave]

I am too lazy Glen but I feel it should be OK.

I tried to order the motor and track today having topped up the toy fund yesterday but I could not work out how to order on their web site... so I sent them an email...so rather than shipping today they wont see my email until Monday..no worries I am patient...I added brackets to the door frame today as I can see the motor being mounted on an extention of the door frame..Made it very stable..I have it all worked out now...

As my phone is playing up and I cant message even...a side note..went to the Doctor yesterday..the blood clot that I have been concerned a little about has been there since the operation and apparently, I am on medication for it..Doctor said dont worry as she has been watching it and is not concerned..it came up as a result of eye tests and my GP was not aware that it was being treated..neither was I....she said my condition is remarkable and everything is first class very fit chap apparently...and another doctor cleared my licence thing, so I am still with licence..so watch out folks.

But very busy with a little venture. and with phone issues

alex

[Startrek]

Good news on the health front Alex !!
Hope you get your phone issues resolved
It’s been cloudy in the big smoke for nearly 2 weeks
Hopefully the weekend might give us a short reprieve
Itching to get down South and clear all the spiders out of my Dome and inside the 10”. At this stage heading down on the 18th Dec for 5 days , back for Xmas and Boxing Day and then back down for month or so
Best
Martin

[TrevorW]

Hi Alex hope alls well


How do you find those green insulation panels you have in the roof do they help, I think they are around 30mm thick is that correct, I was planning to use those or something thicker for the roof. The walls will be insulated using pink batts. I plan using gyprock for internal walls instead of ply but will use ply for the floor



Regards

Trevor :)

[xelasnave]

I would find them in Bunnings next to the timber section. Not sure of the width but can tell you it varies so if you decide to buy some get as many as you need in one go to avoid finding the size has changed between orders..I think I got caught with a colour change but you see being colour blind it really doesn't bother me.

I think they work very well but I did not do before and after tests.

What I did notice recently was the temperature in the observatory was 2 degrees less than in the van around mid day... but the observatory has ventilation and the van has none.

However the van is under a tree but the observatory is not under a tree...it made sense to put it out in the open.

I would like to have the observatory professionally linnedwith ply but the guy who can do it is booked solid for 12 months..I don't plan that far ahead.

There is a substantial saving in going for gyprock but a decent ply would be nice...the reason I say that is that with a little imagination you can add strips of timber to make it look like a flash panelled room that you would expect to find the Brittish Admiralty meeting to discuss sending Captain James Cook to discover Australia.

Lining all surfaces with mirrors is worth thinking about but not doing.

I really enjoy following your progress ...I get so much joy watching folk realise their dreams. Thank you for taking the time to keep us informed on your progress.

Alex

[xelasnave]

A little bit of progress...I had emailed the supplier of the gate track motor but had not heard and I thought my email was lost...anyways today I spoke to Robert and placed my order and paid the money over...he read the order back and sure I got the motor and gearctrack but also some GST whatever that is...

It is a big punt..I have no idea if it will work and relying on my endless supply of good luck to make it all work...

AND ...I had ordered another security camera recently from one of those adds claiming they have destroyed the industry because of their fabulous camera...well I ordered one and when trying to pay for it there was an offer of another for half price or something...so I thought why not and tried to complete my purchase but I seemed to get caught in a loop..I paid the bill which was less than the price of one of the cameras that I already have...but I was not sure if I had ordered one, two or even three...well today the package arrived...four new security cameras:lol::lol::lol: ...anyways I go from, only months ago pulling out my hair trying to get just one security camera to work to now where I have six of them...

Anyways I hope to have one monitoring the smooth operations of the observatory roof rolling back and forth under the command of one of the two remote control units...

And I hope that I can get it all working not only for me but for others ...as so far this system is reasonably cheap compared to what is out there and it seems that we may have a decent chap at the supply end...

Anyways it is coming by freight so when it arrives I will post some photos and get it all working..

I am thinking to hang some photos to have people wonder why..say Napoleon, Stalin, Queen Elizabeth stuff that will have visitors wondering what the conection with astronomy..but it would be good if I could find say those people had some link...any ideas?

Alex

[TrevorW]

This is a bit of the mark have you ever watched a movie called


Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets


there is a guy that drives a sub in part of the movie called Bob and your profile picture reminds me of him.



Glad to see you are keeping active first time in 67 years haven't been able to shake a cough I've had for five weeks and went for my first ever CT scan today so hope nothing serious shows up.

Slowed down on my build due to supply issues have to wait a couple of weeks for material so should be back in swing next week, all the best moving forward for your build etc :)

[xelasnave]

Hi there Trevor..have not watched the movie...

I don't have the beard and shoulder length hair as it had to come off for the operation to remove my thiriod and the cancer therein...I must change it.

Now let's me give you some advice, particularly as you seem new to worrying bout health issues...attitude is key..it does not matter if they tell you that you only have a week to live you must stay positive and happy that you at least have another week...it is so easy to focus on the negatives of dieing in particular but the real .loss is the time you spend fretting which takes your real time you see....and things will get to you but you have to be insanely strong and make every moment a winner... I have looked death in the face three times and it is seductive..it tells you to relax and leave...so be ready to avoid death..it's easy for me now as I know how it calls to you...you find nothing matters..well at that point you really have to get a grip and fight past that feeling...but you can't have days where you are not happy...it is just not allowed.

Now stop worrying if you draw a bad hand don't stop for a moment..I would say about the cancer..it may take my life but I will not let it ruin my life...and so I bought a sports car and a truck load of astro gear to show it who is the boss...now many folk thought I had gone mad but I knew what I was doing and things worked exactly as I thought they would.

I say I am the luckiest man on the planet and I sincerely believe that and I am because I sincerely believe that...get it..but I am I live something most folk .ca not even understand.

And you are going great guns with your build so do not let bad news slow it down..not for a second...and thanks for your inteterest...if you want to chat..pm me

Alex

[LonelySpoon]

Well said Alex!

Trevor: "Live life like there was no tomorrow so that when there is no tomorrow you'll have no regrets"

Not sure who said that- it may have been me.

Neville
LSO

[xelasnave]

Good thinking Neville..when I was younger and a little wild I lived that way but at some point during the night I would look at my watch to find that it was in fact to morrow.

These security cameras are to screw into a light socket...they come with a light socket but now to use them I need to put in wiring and their light sockets fittings..so they certainly have created more work...but I can't test them until they are placed which I do not like..best putting them to one side and thinking more...

Alex

[TrevorW]

Hey Alex I'm not worried if something does show up bad from the scan then I'll go out with a bang in more ways than one rest assured of that :)

[xelasnave]

The motor and track arrived today so that was pretty good delivery time.

I only just now took it out of the box as earlier it was to hot to do a thing...

Anyways here is a photo as I promised..I only openned it to show you guys like I said I would.

Tomorrow we are going to see if we can instal it...I have "borrowed" a long piece of timber from my daughters project which saves me so many problems..like getting a Bunnings delivery for one piece of timber ...so thats good..

I have not read the instructions yet but check out the warning sign..I really do not understand it at the moment..in out left right why would you care?

I hope it works.

Alex

[LonelySpoon]

just a guess it means it rolls the gate from left to right by default...

Looks good and solid.

Neville
LSO

[xelasnave]

Yes but it is not a gate:P

Update on progress. The stand for the motor is in place, the track beam is now here, the track is being fitted right now..but it is so damn hot ..I am worried my assistant may lose efficiency in this heat, but I think he is going ok but with the air conditioner running I cant hear him working....

He removed the cover and the motor is huge thank goodness.

The problem may be movement so I am going to lie down and worry about that in an effort to contribute to the project.

I had no idea that supervising could be so draining.

Alex

[dikman]

Yeah, it's a tough job but somebody has to do it.;)

[xelasnave]

Some photos.
Assistant had to go home to change out of wet clothes...funny I did not see it rain

[xelasnave]

He ran out of fuel so I took us to lunch.
Back to work and it is actually near finished another couple of weeks should see it done..all jokes aside the movement of the roof in its curtent tracks may cause issues...anyways I am trying.

[LonelySpoon]

>>Yes but it is not a gate

But have you told it that?

Good that it seems well over-rated for the job.

Looking forward to seeing how it works out.

Neville
LSO

[xelasnave]

Running into problems...

The roof is wider at one end which we have rectified so it is only now 5mm difference..but I need to reduce that to 2 mm or manage horizontal movement to restrict it to 2 mm...this is an issue as it has bearing on how the cog will line up with the track...I will add wheels to control horizontal movement and perhaps a nylon guide just before the cog.

This will be further exasibated as the track upon which the roof travels is made from two lengths of L section steel and I have detected a slight bend...I think I can fix that.

The other issue from two sections of steel is that one is slightly thicker on the base section which means we have a vertical movement to remove...all opinions so far considered are not exciting ...grinding probably not sensible..adding a strip of metal to gain the same level seems mandatory but do I add another track on top of say wood...or perhaps buy actual gate rollers and track ....

Ensuring constant cog to track contact will not be easy so we have much to do...

However...the platform upon which the motor sits (you can see the silver mounting plate where the motor sits in the photo) has been erected using shelving brackets hung on the exterior of the door frame and the door frame has been complimented by adding two 3x2 hardwood posts attracted either end with shelving brackets and on one side two horizontal pieces of 3x2 posing as guard rails..which is good because I have nearly fallen of the open end of the deck a few times now...there was supposed to be guard rails but it never got done until now..but it all comes together to provide a very solid platform for the motor..need to add something on the ends yet....so at least it won't move it is the track side that now has huge issues.

I changed out the timber which we attached the track because it had a slight wiggle and it is clear that this job demands perfection simply because any short fall effects cog to track contact and the tolerance I rate as probably only 2 mm...so a 3.8 x 3.8 mt roof has to basically be square with an error only 2 mm...

Anyways we are learning a great deal

Alex

[LonelySpoon]

Wow:

>>so a 3.8 x 3.8 mt roof has to basically be square with an error only 2 mm...

My maths is a bit rusty, but isn't that around 0.05%?:shrug::question:

Asking a lot, but good luck with it.

My feeling is that things like gate openers are built to be big and bulky and forgiving of things like dust and grit build up in the grooves- not so observatories!

As you chase down the last irregularities hopefully it will all slide together for you.

Neville
LSO

[glend]

Forgive this question, but is it not possible to build some flexibility and guides into the motor mount to allow it to track the cog track as the roof moves?

[xelasnave]

Hi Glen

Yes and I hope my ideas in this area will work.

For horizontal I will add wheels (4) on each end which in theory should manage horizontal alignment and in addition place nylon guides ( a cut up cutting board from the Supermarket) ...You would think those two additions should work however the rails upon which the wheels travel will need to be straight and parrallel...this is not to case at the moment...as the bend is inside walls may need "adjusting".

The horizontal worries are less than vertical movement concerns particularly after discovering the height changes between the two sections of steel...the surface needs to be raised...all I can think about is how...I am thinking fibre glass resin with a new srtip of steel for the wheels to ride upon or timber and getting the actual track sold by the motor supplier together with their rollers.

Assistant is available Tuesday so we will straighten and make parrallel the rails and make the roof perfectly square, add the wheels to manage horizontal and also position the nylon guides...in other words nail down horizontal with the track and motor fitted and inspect vertical movement over the course of travelling closed to open..an inch at a time...each side has four wheels so one hopes the vertical movement is not significant and fixing the height thing is not necessary because there will be so much work and maybe require the entire roof to come off...however I am a lucky person and if we need to take off the roof that will make it easy to paint when on the ground...

I take the time to cover these problems mainly so anyone thinking about doing similar will know what to be concerned about...

I really would like it to be operational by Christmas so I can call it my Christmas present.

Alex

[xelasnave]

All problems come because a roof is different to a gate.. frankly I had never noticed before...the big problem is expansion and contraction of the roof due to change in temperature I expect...if the worst comes to worst I will add a single bed and stick the gate motor on my front gate.

Alex

[xelasnave]

Well it is done...and it works...

The remote works from my bed ...

It occasionally trips the inverter but it resets in a couple of minutes and you can carry on...this is great because I thought I would need a bigger inverter, just to use it, but I can live with it playing up ...and it may be that it was hot and the batteries were not fully charged given all our testing.

Many adjustments were needed but far less than I was preparing for...

I cant believe that I got this done..and special thanks to my assistant who did all the up and down on the step ladder and indeed most of the work.

I am very very very happy.

Alex

[Startrek]

Alex,
I bet your happy , great achievement
Well done !!

Cheers
Martin

[TrevorW]

well done Alex getting there :)

[oska]

Now that's an awesome chrissy pressie. Congrats! :thumbsup:

[xelasnave]

Thank gentlemen...now all I have to do is add two more piers and it is all finished:P:D;)

[AstroViking]

Congrats Alex!

[strongmanmike]

Great to hear Alex, its been a journey for you for sure but well done my man :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Mike

[xelasnave]

Thanks very much gentlemen..sorry not to reply earlier...Well I have been very busy tidying up and working out where to place an additional pier..well I have to as ;)I found a pier extention made of steel so the job is almost done...maybe one of these fancy harmonic drive mounts as this pier extention would take one perfect..it's like it was made for one.

Anyways...we had to adjust some roof supports to fit everything and it seemed it may have been dropping so I clamped everything and we added additional roof support batons today just in case..

We also removed the rust from the rails and added phosphoric acid and an etching coat...just needed to wait to apply the final epoxy coat.

We added 28 angle brackets to most every corner to really make the structure rock solid...and it now certainly is very rigid.

I have ordered the proper "gate" track so the thing lines up perfect..it should be here on Friday ..it works ok but I was going to replace the timber beam upon which the gear track is fitted with a box steel beam but looking today that may be overkill..which is ok..but to get the steel..14 ft...I need to put a roof rack on my little Hyundi...do you know what a roof rack costs these days..I just cant bring myself to submit to being scalped..say good bye to $450 it seems...anyways it will delend on what is in the gate track kit..there will be rollers and if we can fit them on what is there the timber may stay...

The only other thing we started today was to add cross bracing to the roof..I am just trying to make everything as strong as it can be as the less flex the better now the gate motor is operational.

The tracks that the roof travels on I noticed has a slight bend which does not effect things but I can't sleep knowing that it has a slight bend so that will have to be fixed.

I have designed a single style pier which may be five star pickets welded with a ply box to make the form work...it will depend on if I can source 235 mm pvc easy...but a ply box could work well...I am getting used to piers and now putting in another..or two..is not a big deal...I want to add a 9.25 etc to the mix...but I need to research what I need...and if there is any point to getting one...but it's like golf you need different things for different things...plus it will force me to sell a heap of stuff I don't even see let alone use.

So not getting any photos as the Sky has not been worth opening even now with the remote control...I must say it is rather ausome when you press the button and it marches off and stops exactly where it should....I still can't believe that we got it done.
But this really was a case of I should have given up long ago if I was smart...anyways I am very happy that at least it worked given everything else to achieve this goal failed over and over...

Alex

[glend]

Great work Alex, inspirational at your age.
Re the 9.25, consider the f ratio, they are pretty slow, and I know you have a "need for speed" in relation to imaging. How about a nice 10" imaging Newt? Or go bigger, say a 12" f4 imaging newt if you have the swing room; Andrews had them on sale prior to Christmas. You might need some help from your labourer to lift it onto a mount.

[LonelySpoon]

Alex,
Again, great progress!

FWIW, I have a 9.25" and a 12" f4 newt.

In the end they take up about the same length of my EQ8 mount when you count cameras, etc, because of the different light paths.

Neville
LSO

[Startrek]

Alex,
From my limited experience I only have one piece of advice , keep it simple
My 10” f5 Klaus Helmerich Carbon Fibre Newt ( 1280mm fl ) is a real winner
Easy to collimate , plenty of reach and a real light bucket (I built it for under $2000 ) Bought the KH CF tube ( designed for GSO gear ) from Sidereal and GSO parts from Andrews ) It reached focused with my 2600 using the EAF with 15mm spare travel and collimated beautifully first time !!
Same can be said for my older metal tube tubes , the 8”f5 and 6” f6 although there not in the same league.
You’ve seen my images over the past few years in both crappy Sydney light pollution and pristine skies down south from my Dome

Best always
Martin

[xelasnave]

Thanks Gentlemen.

I was thinking that a 9.25 would be good training for a 16 inch. I have designed a small crane which will be fun to build down the road and use the motors that used to open and close the roof...it is pretty simple and I can do it with the spare hard wood I have squirelled away.
I have thought about this for some time as I can not lift the RASA with confidence...well I have not tried to be honest so I am probably being negative and realistic all at the same time. I want to move it to the Southern end as I can't get much North stuff where it is now..have the eq5/ 80mm and RASA change places in time.

And with that in mind I added a pulley system today so I can lower and raise the " triangle" Southern end of the observatory.

Rather hot it reached 35 degrees C in the van but I put on the genny to run the air con and paid for my owners licence for Astro Pixel Processor...another couple of things done.

Alex

[Hodur]

Mighty task, it looks as if you’ve tucked a major win under your belt

[LonelySpoon]

Alex,

I am also concerned about my ability to lift 'scopes onto the mount, and have provided for a pulley mounted on runners that cross the base of my dome.
(The base of my dome is above the level of the resting 'scope).

For a while I considered a 'ute crane' like this one at Total tools:

https://www.totaltools.com.au/media/catalog/product/1/5/156217-tti-900kg-swivel-ute-crane-twec9001-HERO.jpg?optimize=medium&bg-color=255,255,255&fit=bounds&height=615&width=615&canvas=615:615

There are even floor versions for moving car engines around.

Neville
LSO

[xelasnave]

I looked at a unit and determined to buy it the next day but when I went back it had been sold..I had not thought much about the issue since then ... certainly there are plenty of things out there but mine would be better ..if I build it...I like building things but I suppose it makes more sense to waste my money rather than waste my time.

Been working on roof strapping this morning and getting final measurements for the next pier...I am doing it on the basis that I will run the eight inch and complete the build I had in mind for it and see if my old EQ6 can respond to Asiair plus...it really is a great scope and I had in mind baffling it and improving the standard focuser...and adding a long baffled dew tube...probably smart to see what I can do with it...that will be four and there is still room for one more...I thought it was crazy to go for so many scopes but with the few and far between imaging sessions getting heaps of data in one night is not crazy really.



Last night we had a mega storm I thought all my work work would be blown away but happily all is ok...the poor guy who owns the Rural Agency lost half the roof of his house.

Alex

[dikman]

Depends, if you enjoy building things, and get satisfaction from it, then it's not wasted time as far as I'm concerned.

At least your caravan didn't become airborne and turn into a plane.:)

[xelasnave]

Yes I thought I may end up with a tree house:eyepop:...and you are right but thinking it thru again today while being drilled in the dentists chair I thought either way it is more stuff to clean etc so I will just get the assistant and the girls to move RASA ..a one off I expect..what I should build is a trebuchet ...I have always wanted one..nothing big say about 20 high...only because I cant buy one.

Anyways the additional pier is now a definite go.. I am trying to have it completed by the end of the week...it is really a very simple job so I have decided not to procrastinate...also the track wont be here until Tuesday so I am not going to let my world revolve around that..when its here it will get done but it has lost its place on the to do list...I have found one can lose so much time waiting for the next job to be completed when most times there are other jobs you can do ... My whole week was planned around this damn track and it did not show..so putting in the pier will salvage the week....mmm it must be done tomorrow I guess..

Alex

[xelasnave]

I think I will spend the day thinking if putting in another pier is a good idea and not just motivated by my annoyance that the track did not turn up. Having had some rest at the moment the only reason I can think to do it is the fact that I said here that I would...saving face is never a good reason to do anything..I know I can get it done today if I decide to and I dont have to do it to provecthat I can...mmm I wish I had a cat so I could discuss it all.
Alex

[glend]

Alex, perhaps the answer is to simply build another observatory building and put the new gear in there. You have the land, systems, and the experience. Those prefab flat pack observatories are pretty easy to put together. Check out the Greenline observatories being sold by Testar. They seem pretty cost effective for the smaller roll off structures, less than $10k. And by the way check out their roof drive systems, one with ASCOM control.


https://www.testar.com.au/collections/greenline-observatories?utm_campaign=gs-2019-12-27&utm_source=google&utm_medium=smart_campaign&gclid=CjwKCAiAh9qdBhAOEiwAvxIok6DJL n5YmIFiccZkf2tupxkNICgU2hH8JmDftplU BdhQbXeP3QEXzBoCzsAQAvD_BwE

[dikman]

Trebuchet - every time I hear that word I think of the show Scrapheap Challenge. Three farmers build a trebuchet from scrap to launch a Mini car. An incredible build that unfortunately spectacularly collapsed when they tried it out!
Brilliant show.

[xelasnave]

Thanks Glen...I think I am just getting impatient to get some decent seeing.

Funny the reality of inflation..my first house cost $10,000.....

The current observatory has not cost anyways near $10,000 ...even with all the motors piers and electrics...although all up when you put in the land clearing, scopes mounts and etc etc etc...I shudder..but at this end of the game there is little point saving for a rainy day... although I do have a problem if I live to 100..

Like it now all works and I would like to just have that night where I can lay on my bed, open the roof, tell the scopes what to do etc...just to see it all working ... it seems so silly really but what do you do if you won't read fiction.

It has been so long and so many hurdles etc I just want to see it all in action...but fun really..I look around in there and everything reminds me of a struggle and a victory...so it was good to build my confidence which as you probably notice is not very strong.

I think I need another hobby as well as a cat...plus get out more I think...giving up on my plans to sail around the world has left a huge gap to fill.

Alex

[xelasnave]

Update...
The track had turned up last week but it was at the Post Office..I expected it to go to the Rural Agents so asking there was useless...usually large items come via courier and go to the Rural Agent..I don't track so I never noticed the shipping method and did not enquire until the vendor advised it had arrived..they did not say where leaving the opportunity for me to make a false assumption.

Anyways got it home and inspected it and after much thought have figured how to include it in the mix..It needs another timber rail ( or replace the timber rail with a steel box section) happily I have another similar piece of timber...not only will it support the new track but will add strength which was why I was thinking of replacing the current timber section with steel...so it has worked itself out and I dont have to buy and fit a roof rack..which I am very happy about...also this approach will allow fitting guide wheels which up until now were only on the outter section of the roof as there was no room wherecthey really should go...now all will be close to conventional.

I have not heard from my assistant since I said I wanted to add another pier...it is not a nice job but I don't mind as I lay on my belly under the floor which funny is much better than the agony of standing.

So I have decided to put in the pier but not rush it..I have bought the star pickets and later today will buy a welder as I am going to make a frame that would support everything even before adding concrete.

I have placed the old EQ6 with the eight inch where the pier will go and it will fit perfect...I plan on a box section below floor level as I can remove the old form work from the first pier and use it for this new pier..may have to shorten it but it is square and fits between the floor bearers...above floor level I am going to use a large plastic bucket, which strangely gives me a perfect height...I have had the bucket in place with the steel mount carriers and it will all be so simple.

I have decided to remove the old winch motors as they will never be used again as with all the work on the roof and the carrier rails to get it as good as it could be now means I can push it by hand..so if I have a motor problem I can still close and therefore get rid of the old motors and the cabling and repurpose all that stuff...maybe a 4wd winch on the red car...I have an xtrail which I may add a crane so the winches will see use somewhere...

But the exciting thing is a couple of nights ago I was able to give the whole set up a real run..open for imaging that is...all worked perfect and I probably don't even need this additional track and wheels but as I paid for it I will still go ahead...And when the clouds came in..as they do when you get everything running and stop for a coffee...I did not even get upset when I saw white screen I just switched everything down via the Asiair plus and pushed the remote and thought to myself ..how good it that...

And I have had a good look at the old eight inch and have decided that with a ZWO EAF the focuser will be ok...so I will buy a ZWO harmonic mount and .camera and filters and wheel and put off buying a scope as the eight should work well.

So not much happening but making forward progress...as I said I will buy a welder and make a stronger set up than before and also weld the bolts to the frame...

But my experience equips me to offer advice on the easiest way to control a roof off roof and perhaps the best way to make a pier...but being old no one listens..which saves me time explaining..life is good.

Alex

[xelasnave]

I did not buy a welder...no one knew what an "arc" welder was...I don't know if they were un informed or if I am way behind the times..I will ask y assistant if he can do it after all.

I bought 16 mm threaded rod rather than bolts.I love threaded rod..but the prices ..57 cents for each nut and 37 cents for each washer..anyways that part is sorted.

And Bunnings had the gate track and wheels that I waited on...And because I could have bought only the bits I needed they would have been much cheaper...again nothing to do but move forward.
I bought a decent step ladder so fitting everything will be safer for my assistant ..it is a painter's thing so he can use the tray to hold paint stuff for tools...And it will be handy for something in the future...un related but I bought a bbq rotisserie ..I have one in Sydney but just can't get down to pick it up...so hang the expense I can do huge roasts and veggies where I create food for more than a week...And it tastes fantastic.

Tomorrow we fit the track and hopefully the job will finally be complete.

The additional pier I will just chip away at as there is no rush for it..I have the saw for the floor and all the materials other than the concrete which is available when I want it in Tabulam.

Alex

[glend]

ARC welder aka Stick Welder. Bunnings sells them.

For your purposes this cheap one would do the job:

https://www.bunnings.com.au/ozito-120a-inverter-arc-welder-kit-iaw-120_p0327848?store=7219&gclid=CjwKCAiA2fmdBhBpEiwA4CcHzY7oI-9GG56mRSEatJUexkUlfDdETTaDTtkQboia4 GD0e1yP_pFsGBoCyccQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

[xelasnave]

Yes they were out of stock but I must say the hunt afterwards at another place had me forget I first went in to get one of those....
I now recall the young guy at Bunnings thought they had the cheap one out the back and come back next week...heck if that was me selling I would have taken details and did the follow up...
Anyways I have some grinding and cutting first and I will probably ask assistant to do it which would be smart as I already have more junk than is healthy.

But I like welding and no doubt if I had one I could make a few things for fun...

Alex

[TrevorW]

I'm trying to avoid buying tools to build the OBs as much as possible fortunately for me my neighbour has a welder and was only to happy to assist :)

[dikman]

Those little inverter arc welders are pretty cheap on ebay, I bought one and it's pretty impressive, given that I can hold it in the palm of my hand!

[xelasnave]

OK I have changed my mind again...no welder..my neighbor/assistant offered me one he did not need but when I thought it thru I realised I would need to use the 8 of a teeny which is not key start...I can't pull my socks off..so I don't wear any..so getting a welder was a silly idea..unless I get a key start 8 of a teeny which will not happen.

So today we added the additional gate track and installed the wheels but it became apparent that I need to straighten the track to gain maximum efficiency so I will do that before we add all the screws etc..it really works great but I want it as good as it can be and I am not far off now...it is so cool pushing the remote.

All the roof adjustment and track cleaning has really paid of as it now moves effortlessly..I can even move it manually..And that being the case I removed the two winch motors that openned and closed it up until now...And along with then all this ugly cabling..I had used the old welders cable which is about half inch do a...carry as much current as you lime stuff...but now all of it is gone and it looks so much better.

In addition to sorting out the additional track we cut the hole in the floor for the new pier. I will add a photo....also I wired up the threaded rod, the mount connection and struts all ready for welding..this approach will see a stronger u to but it can go in as a single piece which will save heaps of effort...

And when I walked in I received an Email that the ZWO mount is in .so.....but I am not getting another scope until I see how I go with lo g F/L...my plan is to add a Barlow to the eight inch ( 1000mm) say 2.5 and see how good the ZWO mount guides..if really good the maybe a 9.25 which I never thought I would ever consider....anyways getting stuff done.

Alex

[Startrek]

Alex,
As a trial , I used a 2 x Powermate ( similar to Barlow ) in my 8” Newt down the coast back in 2020 to increase the focal length from 1000mm to 2000mm this making it an f10 focal ratio

I thought this would be a great idea and avoid the need for a bigger scope

Imaged Carina with 20 x 5 min subs on Gain 0

Unfortunately it was a total waist of time

The image had poor dynamic range, I stretched the crap out of it in Startools using both Film Dev and AutoDev and it was still quite dim and lacking fine detail

It proves that super long focal lengths need more Aperture to match to get that focal ratio down to f6 or below

My experiment with making my 8” an f10 Newt was useless for Astrophotography

Just thought I would share my experiences

Cheers
Martin

[xelasnave]

Thanks Martin.
I did recall that you had tried something along the lines I mentioned..in fact I was going to PM you to ask so I really appreciate your comments.
Alex

[xelasnave]

I totally gave up on the welder and had my assistant weld all that I needed...

Bought more star pickets and now assembled all the concrete on site ...trying to hammer in my structure of reo and it is not easy ...anyways here is a photo before the concrete is added.
Ordered a whole new set up bar a scope so all that is shipped today so its going great.

Alex

[strongmanmike]

Aaaah yep!... the veritable Aussie star picket, good for many things! Excellent!

Mike

[xelasnave]

Hi Mike..try this..A decent ring of rocks with a small fire inside...make small "s" hooks from wire..an old coat hanger is great..cut up some meat into cubes ..I like 4 to 5 cm...marinate in your favorite stuff but make sure it includes one half a bottle of red wine..you drink the other while while marinating marinate over 24 hours and six bottles of red.wine..put chuncks of meat on hooks and hang well away from the fire on star pickets that have neat holes...burn off all their paint first..and not only do you get heat from the fire but the star pickets throw out heat as well. ..plenty of smoke is good..leave there all day having started early and sprinkle one eighth of a bottle of red every two hours or more if the meat looks dry otherwise drink that wine as well..and before hanging the meat...if lamb roll in rosemary if beef roll in crushed pepper...take off when the meat is black or sometime after you wake up ..not to charcoal but just from smoking all day... set aside to cool and serve with a good red wine...dont rush...if the fire dies down just add small amounts of fuel the ore s one the better.

So got the star pickets thing hammered down after a great deal of effort...now have to add four more long star pickets driven so only a foot of them is out of the ground..there will be nine feet of star pickets from top to where they end some five foot below ground level..lay a cross of two star pickets at the base raised off the ground and wired to the star pickets that hold the bolts...and drive short star pickets that join up with the cross four at angles of 45 degrees..wire them together..cover all in dry concrete then add form work on top and fill it with concrete, add cut up drum as form work above the floor level and another pipe section to make it look nice add more concrete over everything..then get a squirty bottle and wet any concrete visable so it does not let dust go around the place...hit with squirty bottle each day for a week and then a couple of buckets of water over all that..then half a bottle of red wine and drink the remaining half...I have to pour it all over the concrete unfortunate as I don't drink.

I will add some photos if I remember...

We did a lot of tidy up today adding insulation foam and enclosing a large gap between the roof and it's rail.this is somewhat a big deal as this is where work had got to when I first had to go to hospital and I could never get back to working on this aspect...but all good now..just received an Email that all the gear has been shipped so the pier will be finished just in time.. everything you need for a narrow band set up .And RBG.well all the seven usual filters and filter wheel , mono camera, OAG to trial, guide camera, Asiair, EAF,

.I will put all this on the new ZWO mount and use the eight inch scope...so that will be four independent units so when there is a good night I should get plenty of data...a d get to bed early as now that I am old I find a couple of all nighters is just too much for me...

I added a sign on the door saying "Glen and Peter Observatory" in recognition of their input..Glen put me onto the observatory ( and my red car) and the 115 mm refractor and a great little guitar ..so much I can never thank him enough...and Peter is my assistant who saved the place after me being many months in hospital and bed ridden..things had gone so far downhill that I doubt I could have recovered...and almost every week we work on the observatory ..like the gate motor project..it may be corny but I want their names on the door...

Anyways it is all mostly done ...although we are now working out how to line it with ply to make it look nice..there is so much that is ruff but it works and frankly it saved my life as thinking of how I would build it gave me a reason to keep going and trust me no one will ever know how tuff it was..And still is really...but having something to keep you interested got me thru...remember I ,most 30 % of my body weight and months went by where everyone though I was finished...not me however...the RASA near sent me bats but now I have given up mono with it life is much better...

Alex

[xelasnave]

Here you may see that the under floor upper form work has been added and the additional star pickets are obvious...they are already well into the soil below and will be driven below floor level.

I have managed to move 14 bags of concrete " on site" which is a very big deal for me on such a hot day...five near the entry ramp to drop down the hole and fill the ply form work and drum which will make a nice pedestal.. I got up early to move all of it but had flattened my cars battery so it did not take a recharge until itvwas very hot...but I had to get it done else other things would be held up..like going to town to buy diet coke..it was hard driving home with all the concrete so I was not driving back in today with it on board.

The rest are placed such that I can drag them under with not too much drama...thank goodness I had the good sense to cover up both piles of concrete bags as it has been raining now for hours...

The rain is handy as I dug some holes alongside the supports for the track which needs straightening..I have all the pulling gear in place but water in the ground in the holes I made should allow the things to move.

I have gone off lining the observatory with ply as I know it wont turn oit as good as I expect and will only be disappointing unless I can get a really good carpenter...well no chance as my daughter has him tied up for a while...so..I am thinking of painting everything inside black...maybe leave it black or create some wall art to make you feel as if you are on a mountain top looking out over clouds and then fill the sky ( ceiling) with like a deep field type of rendition of many small galaxies...I think I can do it and make it work ..if it comes off it would be brilliant but if not mmmm well I could add a second coat of black...black would be sensible.
Alex

[xelasnave]

OK the pier was finished Saturday except for tidy up and painting..also I have to grind off some stuff on the top to take the new ZWO mount that arrived on Friday.
The supports we put up to support the gate motor was not wide enough to get the garden trolley carrying the concrete in...at 20 klgs I can get them out of the car wnd drop them in the trolley but no way could I carry them from the door way to the pier...until I get hought to use the office chair..still hard to lift but with some grub ing I got it done....14 bags thru the door and the other 10 dragged under the floor which was actually easy cause I am going n my stomach...so no counter weight bar comes with the mount but ordered that early in his morning...I am in Lismore now and hope to find a bolt to fix the mount to the steel fitting on top of the pier.

Near killed me..was ok Sunday but yesterday felt like I was dead so I slept all day and today feeling fair..but very happy to get it done.
I have all the stuff to set up the eight inch..main camera, OAG and mini guide camera, filters, filter wheel, Asiair plus, EAF...but I expect there may be things I have forgotten but very close to getting it all up and running.
Alex

[strongmanmike]

What a masterpiece of engineering, ingenuity and tenacity...hats off mate :thumbsup:

Mike

[xelasnave]

Thank you very much Mike I greatly appreciate your kind words.

More done since last time..ordered counter weight rod and bought the necessary threaded rod to connect the mount to that black steel thing in the photo..I was in Bunnings buying stuff but before I could buy the black paint nearly fainted so I thought just do it another day I made it back to the car and rested and got home ok....so I will paint it all black and use chalk to outline my mountain top view...that way I think I can do it rather than just try and paint what I have in mind....but it must be fantastic so it is a challenge to get it right...

Anyways I am going to take it easy... and maybe I over did things on Saturday...but today we finished adding roof strapping.. filled in gaps between roof and walls due to the rail set up ...And nearly finished additional foam work...

It still will be a week before I can set the mount in place and the eight inch with all the stuff I bought for it ( in preparation for ASKAR 130 I think.)..or maybe if the eight works well stick with it..the focuser bugged me but now with EAF it may be OK so we shall see.

And for fun I am putting in star pickets from the genny shed to the van with little cross timber bits so it will look like power lines..on will carry power to a fridge from the inverter down there and the other lead will be for the air con.. but It should look cute.
I was going to put in ten star pickets just now but after I finished cutting the timber I thought that's enough..
Maybe later.
Alex

[Malewithatail]

Very interesting idea to use a rack and pinion garage door opener to open the roof.

[xelasnave]

The chap who installed it was very clever and I was very lucky to have him on my side...do you know him?;)

Welcome back from your long search for your "key".

Alex

[xelasnave]

A few more photos.

The star picket maze before adding concrete.

AND

The pier more ir less complete with the "Ned Kelly" fitting in place and level ... I probably do not need to but I will add three holes to add small bolts thru to the new mount...but I need to check polar align so I will wait to make sure it is as good as it can be.

There is some work to be done on the foam insulation and then I will paint everything black ...then have a go at some sort of art work.

Alex

[TrevorW]

Solid as a rock Alex :)

[xelasnave]

AND...I drilled holes for the mounts screws guessing PA so here is hoping I guessed correct as there is not much tolerance....so the mount is fitted level etc...and you can see the eight inch that will go on the mount...still work to be done on it ....

Getting there but it all takes time fiddling ...

Alex

[glend]

Nice looking mount Alex!:thumbsup:

[xelasnave]

It is so small and the carry case is like those make up bags the girls had years ago....

I added some rubber mat to tidy up the floor area earlier today and started to put the rig together ..that means I took stuff out of boxes and put It back again...but I am getting excited now..I will wash the mirror on the 8 inch later today but unfortunately some health stuff sees everything put on hold while I renegotiate a new lease it seems...damn inconvenient I really dont have time for that sort of stuff.

The eight really needs some serious reinforcement in my book as the tube is like a tin can but with a seam that was not soldered..it needs grinding back and a alluminium strip added ( maybe just add resin and glass?) and that is such a big job I want to avoid it but I can't...And so while doing that there should be added some support for the focuser region...and it should be baffled...and needs a dew tube...so you can see why I just want to buy an Askar.

Still it keeps me from drifting back to a play boy life style.


Alex

[glend]

Alex, most of those budget Newt tubes are actually folded into a seam, which is likely the strongest part of the tube. The rings, which you seem to have plenty of, correctly positioned stiffen up the whole shebang pretty well. Most new needed only have two rings.

[xelasnave]

Yes I added the extra rings and also that box section of alluminium to firm it up...I think I will grind off the paint and add some resin...anyways I have various ideas for that scope...I will do my best with it and re think things...if I keep it I still have one more spot for another pier and now that I have refinned my system another pier is no big deal...it's is only a day all up and it is easy work as mostly I am on my belly.

I am just getting ready for all the clear nights that are coming...soon.

And folks the worst that will happen re my health is I will have to spend another two weeks in Lismore at the little flat like last time and go to the hospital for an hour each day for radiation...this time I will take the red car and tour the beaches etc and make it into a holiday...

Alex

[xelasnave]

There is still considerable work to do on the eight inch and today I connected up the OAG, Filter wheel and camera another zwo 2600mm) however I can't connect the camera to the filter wheel as missing one thing...male 42 to female 48 I think .... oh and the new Coma Correcter which arrived earlier today... and as I predicted the lost Coma corrector turned up later in the day...however probably the new one is much better...I found a box of stuff that I had forgotten about...the polemaster camera even which has lost its job to the Asiair...but very happy as it was driving me bats as I was sure it was here someplace.

Anyways now that the pier presumably has cured I wanted to polar align and although it has been raining when I looked out it was clear...so went down and moved the 80mm set up over to the new mount and pier...And the damn mount would not work no matter what I did and finally I had to hit the on off button on the side ...what a silly idea...but of course by then the whole sky was covered in cloud ...nevertheless I switched on Asiair connected everything and even with the roof closed told the mount to goto m42 ...so quick and business like... obviously it could not plate solve so I told it to stop and then park and then switched off...not much really but I am very very happy as this ends this part of the trip and it was only a little while ago that there was no pier or new mount and stuff...now there is..it's great as I am particularly happy that I built the pier all by myself
24 plus bags of concrete and 20 star pickets was impossible for me but little by little I did it...the biggest thing is to be patient and just chip away.
Alex

[xelasnave]

OK one more..this is the new eight inch set up..the new mini camera did not work so I had to use the same one from the 80 mm and will return the dud one on Monday.
Anyways both cameras are in sync as to focus but cloudy tonight so I cant test unfortunately.

Next job is painting the walls and ceiling black and I think I will put down some carpet after when all the work has been done...black of course..I saw some squares in Bunnings ..cheap and easy to put down...except for the holes for piers.
You can see that terrible seam which I will attend to later...I started building my baffled dew tube for the rig today.
Alex

[glend]

Alex, looks great. I used those Bunnings carpet tiles in my observatory, put down in early 2015 they are still like new. :thumbsup:

[xelasnave]

Thanks Glen...I started with the black paint today but it is going to be slow work.
I brought in the spray gun but I was not game to use it thinking it may not be such a good idea...And it will need at least two coats...I thought being black one coat but no...

Thanks for your input on those carpet tiles ...as you know..if you recommend it then I buy it...
But it would be nice to actually get to use this gear rather than just work work...And it just keeps on and on...the more I do the more there seems to do.

Alex

[glend]

Alex, you can always just stop the work, put those things on your To Do list, and get busy imaging. Like with my car restoration, there are always things to do, but it does not stop me from enjoying it.;)

[xelasnave]

I have been not so good of late so only managed to tidy up the observatory and get stuff working etc and did mqnage to build a small box for the he new genny near the van...so at least things are moving along....

AND today we painted the ceiling black ....but ran out of paint so could not do the walls ... Next time.

Alex

[glend]

When my son was a little boy I stuck "glow in the dark" stars on his bedroom ceiling. When we would turn off his light at bedtime, the Sky was full of stars.

[xelasnave]

I was tempted Glen but getting them all in the correct position put me off.

Here is a view of the finished ceiling...

Alex

[TrevorW]

Hi Alex I got boat carpet for the OB only $40 a metre 2 meters wide its indoor outdoor :)

[xelasnave]

That is great Trevor. I had my eye on some stuff at Bunnings but it seems to be sold out.

...Anyways I will get keen after all the paint work has been completed.

That is a good price as I thought $25 A square mtrs was rather decent and you have done better than that...I wish you would build another one..And Mike... someone needs to step up to keep this section ticking over...

Alex.

[TrevorW]

Also I picked up a remote control multi colour light (RCB and anything in between) USB re-chargable from Bunnings $15 :)

[xelasnave]

Now that puts you at the top of the tree...of course as it is remote control I simply must get one...although I did buy two little solar units to put at the bottom of the ramp to the observatory and also the ramp to the door of the van...I can see reasonably well in the dark but if there was a snake curled up I doubt if I would see that in the dark so for that reason splashing out at $6 a light I felt was justified ...ever since I found myself in bed with a snake in the van I have become I little more concerned about running into them...

To morrow we will do something about a sprinkler system and fjre pump around the observatory hopefully to prevent damage from bush fire...And maybe I could use it to cool the place as I notice it takes time to cool down..the RASA was refocusing regularly the other evening and I presumed that was due to a falling temperature...so a little spray after the Sun goes down could be a practical approach.

Alex

[LonelySpoon]

I got one of those 5m rolls of colour changing LEDs from JB HiFi but it was around $60.

Yours sounds like a good deal!

Neville
LSO

[xelasnave]

OK made a pad for the fire pump, serviced it, reatached the intake and delivery hoses and happily we have the delivery hose gushing with water...however I need to add some sprinklers to cover the observatory with water but that will have to wait until I get thru my next medical interruption but with the weather I am not too worried about a fire.

I have been quiet about the new rig I know..the reason was my New zwo 2600 mono and new guide camera did not work...so I ordered another guide camera ( but not another zwo 2600).

Even the new guide camera would not work!,,

Not thru Asiair plus, not thru sharp cap or ZWO suite, changed from USB 3 to USB 2 and back, changed to an external power supply for the camera...stood on one leg with one eye closed..but nothing worked...And then it did...but why why why????..It annoys me so much when a thing just starts to work and you can not identify why...Anyways it is all working using the 115 mm set up and I have left all of it switched on for it to learn...later I will transfer the new guide camera ( I now have one too many) and the main camera to the new rig..Will it work there??? Probably not ...I think they play up when there are cclouds about to give you something to do...

The black paint was not a good idea...even with a light on it is so dark when you are doing stuff...And of course when imaging it's out of the way...I don't know why none of that did not occur to me before I had it painted.
Alex

[xelasnave]

Angle grinder to the rescue once again...I was short one piece ( 48 to 42 I think) but I found something that had more to it to take an ep ..off a 70 mm guide scope ... so I used the angle grinder to trim it down and happily now the camera is attached via this carefully machined part...I know it sounds odd using an angle grinder but I find it a great help particularly now that I have a cordless one...and given I started the day with three cameras appearing to be duds and no way to connect the main camera I am extremely happy.
If there is one thing astro photography has taught me is to just be patient when you reach a road block ...eventually you get past and onto the next one.

Now it sure would be nice to get some clear sky to dial in the optics on the eight inch which will be fun with no tools for this job...just keep playing until the stars become at least ovals and hopefully circles.

Alex

[Startrek]

Alex
ZWO cameras are pretty reliable, I use 3 different guide cameras and 1 imaging cameras over different 2 rigs and they all connect fine
Windows 10 and 11 can be troublesome
Just download the latest main Ascom driver again
Download the Microsoft.Net framework 3.5 again
Download the ZWO drivers again
Standard USB3 cables no longer than 1m
USB2 cables can be 5m +
USB3 long cables up to 5m or 10m must be “Active type” like Startech below ( link)
https://www.startech.com/en-au/cables/usb3sab5m
ZWO guide cameras like 120MM and 290MM which I use are designed for data transfer over USB3
If using a Hub make sure it’s a powered Hub ( I use the Startech 4 port USB3 industrial powered Hub ) link below

https://www.startech.com/en-au/usb-hubs/st4300usbm

Most camera connection problems are to do with -
Microsoft platform
Camera drivers
Cables
Hubs

Hope you get up and running with your gear asap

Best
Martin

[glend]

Alex, I agree with Martin on some points. I had problems with ASI cameras being able to push a signal through the stock (supplied) USB cables. In my observatory I use a powered (active) USB3 extension cable (5m) to get from the camera to my laptop. The stock cable that cane with the camera plugs into the powered extension.

Another option is to use a powered USB3 hub, I had one mounted on my pier for awhile (back when I was running guide scopes). These days, with EAA, I only have to be concerned about the camera USB3 to the laptop, thus the active powered extension is fine.

[Startrek]

Alex,
One important item I forgot to mention
Make sure your computer is providing continuous USB power to ports
See attached pdf in regard to USB Power Management


Also another procedural item , make sure you connect all equipment ( mount , cameras etc… ) in the same port on your Hub and Laptop each time , otherwise you may have to reboot and re connect as the assigned Com ports may have been lost or mixed up. As you have a permanent setup in the Obs this shouldn’t be an issue.

Cheers
Martin

[xelasnave]

Thank you very much Martin and Glen.

I suppose why I found the experience frustrating was there is no computer in the mix initially as Asiair Plus makes the lap top un necessary and you could think everything therefore should just work...the really annoying thing was the older ZWO 2600 worked and the new one did not.. same cables etc...so it was reasonable to conclude the new camera was a dud...why would one work and not the other...

I have been busy with other matters and have not tested everything again,( now that it seems to work,) on the eight inch...I will as soon as I can.

Thanks again I really appreciate both your input as although I don't use a lap top now when imaging I do use it to test the gear and do things like adjust focus between the main camera and OAG and back focus etc so everything you provided was relevant.

I will probably get the walls painted black today...Having done the ceiling I am committed really plus I purchased more paint:D It is just so weird the effect of just the black ceiling...maybe it will be a good place to meditate ...

Thanks again.

Alex

[LonelySpoon]

Alex,

Good you are getting further along- painting always seems to imply getting near the end.

I replaced ALL my cables before I got satisfactory connection. I'm now running USB3 for everything. Some of the gear is rated USB3, the rest 2.

I even had to source a couple of USB3 gender changers. If there is anything below the level of the rest in the line it will seriously degrade transmission.

Also, reliable USB 3 hubs, powered, and reliable extension USB cables, also powered, were necessary.

I still find that the Celestron focuser drops out occasionally, and I've had to give the Synscan Pro software maximum times for connection.

Having said that, with the new gaming computer being totally USB 3, speeds are amazing. My planetary camera could only get up to around 40 fps before and now routinely tops 130 fps

Neville
LSO

[xelasnave]

Hi Neville...I would like to think it is nearing completion but there is still room for one more pier... I am thinking that I need a back up if all four scopes should all go down at once:lol::lol::lol: I can fall back to a fifth unit...mmm I still have my old eq6 and it is good mount...hmmmm.

Prior to my recent issues, (which were a blessing really because I was more worried about the cameras than the new lump in my neck, ) I had everything working very well..at least the first three scopes ...and had sessions where I was running them all via my Mobil phone...and I was really very very happy because it took some effort to make everything work...the cables are still a mess although much better then when I threw everything together.

My plan is to tidy everything with the help of blue tack and then make a list of what to buy in "best" quality cables before making things more permanent...I did buy two new power bricks 7.5 amp ..I now have 4 or 5 good bricks and many also rans... I am powering cameras via the Asiair plus so I have these additional bricks just in case I need to change power supply..I have some flexibility...

I am so happy my angle grinder machined fitting worked but still have not test run the new rig...yesterday I had a biopsy on this neck thing and today my assistant could not help so I got stuck into the rest of the painting...touch up mainly..so I will finish that tomorrow I feel and now that I am thinking better with the biopsy done I will test the new set up...and I am prepared for the worst..if the new camera is a dud I will just accept it ... I started to think of all the poor folk who lost everything in the floods so if I get stuck with a dud it's not the end of the world ..send it back wait months whatever..buy another it does not matter...

But what I really set out to say is the more I do the more it seems there is to do..like the lining was done but there are gaps and it is that finishing that takes time...its the little things...

Anyways I may have to go in for two weeks of radiation treatment but won't know much until next week...so that will be a good break..this time I will take the red car and do day trips to the coast and turn it into a holiday...

Alex

[xelasnave]

An update...

I am still receiving radiation treatment but came home so assistant could instal the new inverter, solar panel, regulator and battery..maybe get something happening later...I have my new Cheshire so hope to bring to 8 inch to tolerable at least.

Happily the new inverter etc is now done ....and in addition we added bracing because when the roof motor engages it actually moves the front wall...the issue has been greatly reduced and no more a concern...we also put the guide wheels in permanent positions and fortunately everything works.. the roof is staying on the track, the Inverter is not shutting down for want of power...all good.

Unfortunately the place is a mess by virtue of my disasterous last night but I plan on taking a nap now and opening up later and see if I can sort out a few things..but I am so very happy to have made this important progress...and to be free of that back pain..the lump in my neck unfortunately is now huge but one thing the back pain gave me was a realisation that things could be much worse..one day at a time...
Alex

[xelasnave]

Just too beat to manage any imaging..it really has been a terrible three weeks and on top I think the radiation has left me flat to boot....I plan to complete my radiation treatment before I bother..Thinking it thru there are so many problems to address first so I figure just get well recover otherwise it will be overwhelming and I wont enjoy it and enjoyment is what it is about..when well rested it is fun but when you are down it really ain't fun at all.

So sorry no images for now.

Alex

[Startrek]

Alex,
I agree it’s probably best to wait until your treatment is finished , get plenty of rest , food and drink and recharge before you start imaging again. I think we all tend to forget how much brain power is required to image late at night and process the data you captured whether through the night or following days.
There’s so many links in the imaging daisy chain that can be broken through fatigue and so on ….

Hope the treatment goes well , again the Universe is going no where in a hurry.

Hope the weather up at Tabby is not too hot , Sydney has been going through an early Autumn heat wave , plus 30 degrees , high humidity for 2 weeks , nights up at 25 degrees.
I be glad for some cooler weather with lower humidity, so will my imaging

Take care
Best
Martin

[xelasnave]

Hi Martin...I have come back to my nice little flat next to the Hospitals radiology department and laying back with the Air Conditioner ticking over watching youtube nature documentaries...maybe some James Web later:D

You are correct about it being a demanding sport that is for sure...I know I have a great deal to do so there is no point in going for it running on empty...getting the roof sorted with its own inverter and power supply was a big thing in itself so I dont feel too bad copping out on imaging.

My Cheshire was cheap and I think it was cheap because they cut corners on getting someone who knew what they were talking about to put the instructions together..

However seems great value if you ignore the mistake.

Alex

[Startrek]

I use a similar laser collimator ( Orion LaserMate Mk2 ) for my 6” , 8” 10” imaging newts and 12” Goto dob , plus I have an Orion Cheshire. I use both , one to check the other.
Been using them for 6 years ever since I bought my 6” newt.
I also made up a V block to rotate and test the laser collimator against a wall 3m away.

Cheers
Martin

[glend]

Alex I have had a couple of those collimator over the years. It is of course important that you buy one which can be collimated itself. There are a few Utube videos on that I believe. For my 16" Dob I used to fire the laser against a target on the bedroom door down at the end of my longest hallway. As Martin said, a supporting V block is necessary. Get the laser level in the V block, which might take some nail bending as most if those collimators seem to have two different tube diametre in the body. Just make a mark in your paper target and start rotating the laser and making more marks. The idea us to get a very tight grouping of Marks, of course you need to adjust the device with a small hex key through the holes in the body, which are usually at 120 degree intervals. I have heard that your target distance should be 2.5x the scope focal length ( hence my hall way shooting gallery), that is truly obsessive.
Whatever you do, don't drop it, as the collimation will get messed up.

[xelasnave]

Thanks Glen..I have already dropped it..if I had only known I would not have dropped it...only from the bed onto the carpeted floor...but thats good if it wont work I can blame something;).

I found out I still have treatement next Monday and Tuesday in the coming week:thumbsup:.. for those of you who enjoy me going on and on here is a little story...last night at my little flat I thought Pizza would be nice but there was nowhere open...I was really desirous of Pizza such that I contemplated driving to either Casino or Ballina to get one...but finally I opted to buy a BBQ chicken at the supermarket ( plus few a little luxuries... the penalty of shopping when you are starving:D)...well ok earlier not doing a thing just laying here thinking what a lucky guy I am to be here ( there and here:P) and the phone rings..it was as the nice lady at reception who is an absolute pleasure to chat with:thumbsup:...she invites me to "Pizza Night" tonight downstairs from here and its free even... Can it get much better? :thumbsup::thumbsup::thumbsup:

Now if I had not got this new cancer I would have missed on this Pizza Night... Who else has this sort of good luck:)...I got some more pain killers just in case the back pain strikes again..I just need to avoid complications during treatment and I have been taking them to minimise the discomfort of the treatment ( the thing has grown and it hurts a little the way the mask clamps down and you are clamped down for a fair while but I wont say anything cause they might say they need to make a new mask and stop things) And I take one going to bed and found they are helping me sleep cause all those pains that sneak up during the night are eliminated...plus the neck is a little dore and I just could not getvti sleep... but don't worry I am not abusing them medically as I am taking them more on a recreational basis:P:question::thumbsup:.

But just laying around is really doing me good as I just feel so much better..I was really drained looking back..well not going out on two clear nights says it all....Although feeling could be the pain killer..if it is so be it as not feeling pain all the time from something makes me feel normal or rather like it was years ago.:thumbsup:::thumbsup::thumbsup:
The girl at the chemistvwas giving me thecrun downnas they are annopiate after all..said don't take more than four a day...I Told her I only take two ..she said that I Will be ok and that somebpeople have 20 a day...that was such a surprise that I forgot to ask how do I get my hands on packets of 20.

Thanks for listening.


Alex

[I.C.D]

Hi Alex get well soon mate and get plenty of rest ,I have been told that Bundy rum will fix anything.The camera you are having trouble with ,have you tried running through a powered hub,get well mate
Ian

[xelasnave]

Hi Ian thank for the excellent advice but I have trouble walking straight and staying upright so the rum may be counter productive unless I drink enough to imobilise me and leave me safe in bed..that could just work.

I have a list of things to do observatory wise and the powered hub will get a run but I am planning to order fancy new USB cables for all units..a daunting prospect financially...everything is now times four dollar wise and that has bitten me badly...

But I have said it many times and I have paid the price for not heeding my advice..do not borrow from one rig to get another working..if a rig goes down do not borrow as the disease only starts spreading..and now nothing works..although the roof does thank goodness...what a journey that was.

But I will start on rig number one..the RASA ..it's dummy spit was guiding..A reboot should fix that..if not I will work on it until I fix it..it was working perfect one night then went bats.. wasps even ??? Cables?? Slipping clutch...

Then the 80mm which also was perfect but I borrowed it's guide camera and as it is narrow band and I can run short exposures it really becomes a delight with 120 sec plus guided subs...so have to re focus etc.

Next the 115 mm...which became the main camera donner but it should be ok as it has its camera back ..maybe some back focus issues but we shall see..plus I think I borrowed its guide camera..but you can see how thing get out of hand.

The new rig ..mmm..guide camera (cameras as I bought a second one as said earlier out of desparation) needs to work ...next is collmination but I now have a tool so that should all work out...back focus even now seems ok..tilt maybe..but the focuser may be a challenge...in any event I will keep at it..the new mount works just fine but I sure would like some real subs to assess this mount and OAG as I have never used OAG...and getting used to them I believe can be hair pulling

The new Askar 130 is available but until I get eight inch working and can have some indication that death has backed off the Askar is off the table...which is ironic as I put in this new pier and bought all the gear in expectation of the Askar..mount cameras, oag, filter wheel, filters all for the Askar 130 that may now be the only missing bit..but the eight inch is a great scope and I have bought all the materials to provided it with its own baffled dew tube..something that really improves things (actual my engineers testing shows up to 10% on an 80mm) and it has various areas that can be improved to make it great..its just that the Askar caught my eye...the eight should be comparable as it is 1000mm f/L and I planned to run native with the Askar130 at 1000 mm...maybe wait see if I have any future left and go for a 9.25 Celestron instead hopefully having either come to grips with OAG or not...and dependant on how the new harmonic mount promises guiding for that longer F/L...

AND of course there is still room for one more pier if the decision need be made..but unless assistant can do it I shall not risk a back problem...lifting the cement could have started the back problem but it scared me to be sensible from here on...

I just want one night with the roof opening while I push the remote button to open from the flash chair in front of the flash new all powerful computer set and driving all scopes via that computer and Asiair plus with controls on one screen and photos rolling thru on the other..with an internal display monitoring the scopes by my security cameras on either my tablet or lap top...more than using it just once will be a bonus...

That is why these health interruptions are just so annoying as I have a great deal to do to pull all this together...

Anyways at least pour yourself a Rum and drink to my health..as many as you can if you think it could help... perhaps see if my idea about its ability to imobilise has merit.
Alex

[LonelySpoon]

We all want that for you, Alex.

And for ourselves with ours, come to think of it!

Look after yourself through this and don't overdo it.

Neville
LSO

[xelasnave]

Openned tonight..however the roof is still playing up..we think it flexes ( I had my assistant helping me...and lucky that I got him in as the roof had to be moved manually)..the thing has moved and the track was not sitting on the gears.

And shows how stupid I am..with out thinking here I am on top of a ladder..crazy right there, trying to man handle this roof back onto its roller...I just backed off before I was ready to take the strain...goodbye back forever thinking now...but half a second before I was going to lift it hit me..dont even try...thank goodness..but I just got so involved in solving the problem trip.

Well we are sure now that it flexes and that causes issues..fixing that will not be easy as where we need bracing it will hit scopes..,

,anyways tidied the whole place..found one dead rat, five hornets nests, but given the way I had to leave it when the back issues hit and the night everything went wrong weeks ago the progress tonight was pretty good...

the main thing is we got the RASA firing..sorted out its guiding issues and produced one 120 sec image with round stars when the last time I was getting blocks..But that was perhaps the most satisfying image I have ever taken because at least one rig is working fine and putting it in context of all my issues it was like a really big win finally...sure I would to have liked more but going forwards will do.

Started putting back borrowed stuff to restore what it was like prior to messing with the eight and its new stuff but did not bother even looking at the 8 inch tonight.

The roof is a worry but things could have been much much worse as after the last terrible night and the back bringing me to a halt I did not secure the roof ..it was all I could do that night to get it closed..but I did not connect cables or bolts to hold it down in a wind....and we had had some...so very very very lucky that it did not come off...and perhaps the flexing came from the strong winds etc...we will have another go at fixing the roof on Sunday...

But happily we were able to open it enough to get the RASA guiding sorted so still very happy, not withstanding still having roof issues particularly as last time we thought it was perfect...

But the swing is now heading up...

It was so good to just be mucking about and if nothing else all the tools and clutter are outside and now It is starting to look good again with only three necessary tool cases under the desk..

Alex

[glend]

Alex, the pain killers and steroids have you thinking your Superman. Stay off of ladders. A fall is the last thing you need now.

[oska]

Well at the very least get a superman costume, and take pictures!

[xelasnave]

But I am Superman Glen..ask everyone that I am and they will all tell you that:P...

At least on the inside...some evil villian has stolen my real body obviously.

But as usual I treasure your wisdom:thumbsup: ...but I will miss going up the ladder.;). all things tell us something and I am starting to realise that I have been too casual in respect of my leg pain...the test will come over the next few days as I go back on the cancer drugs and they really destroy my feet so if I can get relief still I will be drunk with joy..it really is the pits....anyways the main thing is everything is going perfect for me today and you can't expect more than that...only a week more for the steriods...so I better start looking at what is available in "uppers"...

It was lucky that the roof was playing up as in retrospect the dew was so bad the seeing would have been useless and you see I sorted the guiding with the roof only one third open which would not show just how bad the dew was..it only hit me when I sat on the
mower as it was so wet that I thought some how it rained with out me noticing...And so another down is turned into an up.

Alex

[xelasnave]

In an effort to clarify something I mentioned in Mike's thread saying I was going to remove the roof of the observatory if things could not be fixed...I have received private messages about this so I expect it is best explaining myself here rather than run on in Mike's thread with my issues...

I know I have been talking about stuff going wrong but the roof is the most concerning...before the back and radiation treatments..and that last particular night where everything was playing up.. up to that point the roof worked as well as one could wish...and I added it's own inverter all was great..

However when things went wrong and some weeks passed before I could really put it thru a sequences to establish its performance and then only to find the gears were well away from the track...why why why?...

Maybe the roof " sunk" given the minimum support near the appex, maybe the building is sinking..footings are on soil etc near a dam..there has been wind, leaving it "unexercised" which does not give opportunity for guide wheels to " adjust" things..if the roof sags moving should have the effect of pulling things straight again...

So we have been trying to brace everything that moves..so the motor mount stand is attached to the door frame with steel braces,..so when the motor engages that initial kick is now dampened...stuff like that...we are adding cables to the raffters in an effort to add additional bracing to the roof..when all this has been attended to I hope to find the roof has moved and back to where engaging the gear and track is before us....

My comments about pulling the roof off has to do with two aspects that I think are at play...the roof removal would go hand in hand with turning the motor upside down to leave room for additional bracing...but the main issue would be to make it square..it must be square but we have avoided facing that fact..for Good reason.. .it will be a very big task..being slack should not be an option but well...you know.

Now I have said if I can not fix it in a couple of days off comes the roof..it may take me more time than that but the point is having completed all the intended fixes and if we still have an issue and it wont work well then for me it will be a full attack to make everything square and perfect..off comes the roof.. and what a Big deal..moving all the stronomy gear into the van and I will probably have to sleep in the 4wd...no kidding...a huge undertaking.

OK and I ordered the new Askar 130 as I am not going to let this small issue slow me down...radiology report tomorrow, steroids over on Saturday,...so I have no time to waste

Alex

[xelasnave]

OK good news...

Last night we got the roof to work...the problem, came back to the roof sagging and moving about in
responce to wind and presumably heat resulting in the gear and track not staying in place...

It all came about because the roof had little in the way of support via cross bracing...two sides and nothing to prevent them swinging, moving apart, around and any where they felt they should go due to wind or heat ...because the roof had to pass over the motor bracing was confined to mere inches near the apex of each frame section..
.
Not good in the least...if I did another it would have conventional placement of of cross bracing and some how the motor would fit and we would avoid all this fuss.

I approached the problem on the basis that every little thing will help..a little.. by adding a bracket or cable where ever I could squeeze in something..and really the effect of each bracket or cable in it self would almost not be noticable but the cumulative effect certainly worked ...so where ordinarily we would have one cross brace say halfway down the A frame the roof line for each appex ( four in all) each appex has..now we start with a small support brace joining each side, an angled piece of steel ( a heat bent steel shelf support bracket) secured to each supporting rafter, a stainless steel cable fixed to anchor points at the bottom of the rafters each side tied near the appex connected to two seperate turn buckles with the effect ifof making the rafter cable combination like a giant bow with the cable tensioned to a high "e" note...they ring when you pluck them thats for sure...now in addition there is on one side angled steel that connects the rafter to the beam the carries the gear track introducing a triangular section which probably is the key to stopping sagging and movement...it to my eyeclook fantastic..it is industrial art and I love it..more so because you can see the work that went into all of it.

I removed the track guide wheels and their fittings and created a better mouse trap by making each of the two units adjustable..such that if the roof moves out of the guide wheel grove one simply relocates the guide unit via oval holes in the base plates holding the guide wheels...all good however we need to elongate the oval holes a little more on one side...a small job and I will do it tomorrow...but good news be that the roof kept in line not withstanding these guides were not in place..this means they will not have much work to do and the emphasis will be upon guide the roof not pushing it under strain to keep it on line/ in line...

It has been a journey thats for sure.

Alex

[xelasnave]

This is a little difficult t see but it may give you an idea of the bracing etc

[xelasnave]

The new Askar 130 arrived early yesterday but I was not too flash yesterday and was not able to muster the strength to open it up until late in the day...sure is a pretty thing...and smaller than I imagined which suits me fine.

So very happy that I woke up one day and decided to put in another pier and buy the Askar ...in case you have not figured it out ..it is not about getting another pier and scope but just biting off more than I can chew simply to have to keep chewing...buying the RASA was only about that....and now I guess pier number five will happen as these things seem to be keeping me alive.

I did not have the presence of mind to take photos but will replace the eight inch with the Askar today if I am up for it and post a photo of what I saw in my minds eye only months ago.


Alex

[xelasnave]

Here it is..
Alex

[Startrek]

Alex,
Always exciting to receive new gear especially a new scope
Looks great Alex , nice scope there !!
My new Carbon fibre 8” f5 Newt ( tube only ) has arrived in Australia from Germany after placing an order on the 7th January. Australia post advise its being delivered on Friday, I expect the week after with Aus Post
I’m using all the parts out my old 8” f5 Bintel metal tube Newt to build my new carbon fibre 8” Newt for Sydney. I just wanted a bit more reach with similar FOV and the 8” f5 fits the bill nicely. Also a huge reduction in weight will allow me to balance better and hopefully guide a little tighter too.
The old little trusty 6” Newt is being retired , I might keep it for posterity
Cheers
Martin

[TrevorW]

Very nice scope Alex, I just bit the bullet and ordered the AM% direct from ZWO :)

[oska]

Fantastic Alex, I can see the reflection of your beaming smile in the plastic wrap :thumbsup:

[LonelySpoon]

Nice looking scope Alex.:2thumbs:

Compact enough to handle and swing about by the looks of it.

Enjoy!


Neville
LSO

[xelasnave]

Thank you Martin, Trevor, John and Neville.

I am sorry to be so tardy with posting a reply but I have been resting;).
Anyways yesterday I decided enough laying around and took the Askar out of its case and sat it on the bench and added cameras, Asiar and EAF...I was not thinking so good and had a terrible time with the EAF but finally figured it out ... So happily this morning I woke up feeling rested and completed everything and set the scope on its mount...and although I have not connected stuff up I called it a day took a photo to show you how the set up looks.
You may notice that I am painting the ceiling yellow ...the black was too difficult to work with even in day time...made one feel rather odd...and as the ceiling rolls outside for imaging sessions the yellow makes more sense.

Thanks for your interest and taking the time to post your comments.

Martin...I will be very interested to see how your carbon fibre upgrade works out..unfortunately I think I will sideline my eight inch as I noticed the mirror has degraded plus to use it I need to put in another pier and I feel that four is already three to many.

Tanks again everyone.

Alex

[xelasnave]

Thank you Martin, Trevor, John and Neville.

I am sorry to be so tardy with posting a reply but I have been resting.
Anyways yesterday I decided enough laying around and took the Askar out of its case and sat it on the bench and added cameras, Asiar and EAF...I was not thinking so good and had a terrible time with the EAF but finally figured it out ... So happily this morning I woke up feeling rested and completed everything and set the scope on its mount...and although I have not connected stuff up I called it a day took a photo to show you how the set up looks.
You may notice that I am painting the ceiling yellow ...the black was too difficult to work with even in day time...made one feel rather odd...and as the ceiling rolls outside for imaging sessions the yellow makes more sense.

Thanks for your interest and taking the time to post your comments.

Martin...I will be very interested to see how your carbon fibre upgrade works out..unfortunately I think I will sideline my eight inch as I noticed the mirror has degraded plus to use it I need to put in another pier and I feel that four is already three to many.

Tanks again everyone.

Alex

[xelasnave]

Well apart from making everything now work, but perhaps not completing adjustments like back focus etc, everything has now been done and by that I mean I finally can control the four rigs from my van thanks to running cable between the van and the observatory for Ethernet....just now finished.:thumbsup::thumbsup::thumb sup: each rig has an Asiar and I have emulation software on the desk top to run the Asiair app.

I used 40 metre cable length which is a little too long but 30 metre would have been just a little too short...the extra length meant that I can have the magic box on the desk and did not have to drill holes in the wall by just running it around and thru the front door.

To get the cable thru the conduit was troublesome...I saw a video on the Net saying you tie a bit of plastic bag to string and suck the string thru with the vacuum cleaner...easier said than done because I had to tie various lengths of string together and those knots provided just enough resistance to cause headaches...so the conduit got cut here and there but the staggering around with my walker really took it out of me...back and forth so many times but I was not going to give up ... I wish I had in retrospect as now I just can not stand for more than a minute...so resting and YouTube for the rest of the day...hopefully ok for tonight.

I do hope to get a run tonight and test control from the desk top.

I always knew I would make it...and everyone around me thought I was mad for building this set up but it has kept me going...even when in hospital recovering from this or that I could drift off imagining how it would turn out and my next step...and now it's done...and I really think doing this has kept me alive somehow.

Thanks to everyone who has helped and encouraged me.:thanx::thanx::thanx:

alex

[LonelySpoon]

That's great to hear, Alex!

Looking forward to seeing some photos- updates and astros.

Cheers,

Neville
LSO

[xelasnave]

Well nothing is clear sailing for me due to old age, infirmity and ignorance.

Seem to have screwed up on cable lengths from the magic box to each scope such that the magic box needed to be moved from the desk to the middle of the room so at least three cables reached a scope/mount ... anyways at the moment I can only get one rig to appear on my tablet...I am using the tablet because I realise I need something in the observatory as well as in the van...AND lots of mucking about just to get to control on set up via Ethernet...however it hints at a better future...

I was able to lay on my bed with the tablet and run Asiar and also use it to monitor my two security cameras which turned out very useful on the first meridian flip because I had not figured the correct length of Ethernet cable and things foulded up however the security cameras have audio so I could hear the "beep" signaling problems and then able to shut down proceedings via Asiair ...of course I needed to go down and give the cable attention which I did but very satisfying to be able to shut things down and not be in a rush to get there.

In this cold weather I drive down in my little white car with the heater which makes things better.

I have been trying to get data via the Askar on the Dragons but I just don't seem to have any luck ...I could make a list but it is too depressing for publication...I am starting to find fault with my images rather than just being happy to have got something...however looking on the bright side the ethernet system is working to produce the result I wanted and no doubt in time I will get correct lengths of cable and have it exactly the way I expect it to be and will have all scopes running and controlling things via the desk top computer and examine incoming images on a large screen.

The work instead of diminishing seems to be growing ...the RASA needs the sensor cleaned..again..the camera cable needs attention, the 115 mm still needs back focus sorted, the eighty needs a belt drive, and the wonderful power supply and cables to supply all dew heaters (6) seems to draw too much power and so some testing is in order before I use it again..and cables and leads everywhere...also I took all the ceiling panels out to paint them yellow ( the black did not work) and have to put them back..a huge job...

But I must look at what has been done rather than what remains to be done.

Thanks for listening.

alex

[glend]

Alex, an observatory of such complexity must need a permanent tech to attend to such problems.. while the owner gets to relax and enjoy the show.

[The_bluester]

That is sort of what is happening to me. I am building the obs but will be more or less on site support for my friends gear too. We have the automation thing going pretty well but if it all goes pear shaped then I can at least go out there to sort it out.

[xelasnave]

The place is a mess with cables and leads everywhere.

Today the longer cables arrived so hopefully I will get everything in place... but the Askar is ethernet connected and so I can monitor and control it from the van via the tablet but not yet via the desk top..in time it will happen.

Made the mistake of pulling apart the reducer on the 115 mm and not recording things..cant do that NOW that I have so many things on my mind ..anyways I got it wrong so I hope the second pull down sees it back the right way...clouds prevent testing.

Second pull down of the OSC camera to clean sensor..again..and still have to put the ceiling back in...it is great to have things to do...

Alex

[The_bluester]

Alex, I hope when I get a few years on me I have half your grit!

[xelasnave]

Don't be fooled I just act tuff;). I am really a sook by my standards... not like my grandfather who could take out his bad tooth with a pen knife....

Well I will say it here just for my friends...another scan today and doctor says I am stable which is about as good as it gets in my world...as I have said many times I am just so very lucky...I know it comes down to doctors and meds etc but I am lucky that all that is working for me.

Anyways I only got back from doctors and scan so installing the new cables can wait until tomorrow seeing I now have some tomorrows it seems.

alex

[xelasnave]

I have been doing a tidy up look at the photo so you can imagine just how bad it was before.

The cables are sortta all laid out but I am dead beat and need to rest..a nap even as it looks good for tonight.

alex

[xelasnave]

I removed the 80mm rig and will relocate it close to the van.

I relocated the RASA to where the 80mm lived.

This means I only need to open the roof half way ... for some reason it plays up when openned all the way so hopefully I will have fewer issues with the roof.

The Ethernet is near finished (again) but heck it is taking more effort than I expected...I had to buy two longer cables but subject to fastening them for tidyness all is good.

Ran the RASA in its new spot last night and very happy as I realised it will be able to get M31 whereas it could not in its old spot.

Alex

[JA]

With that evidence, I would look at the straightness and parallelism of the roof tracks as well as any rust/debris of course.

Best
JA

[xelasnave]

Your are correct JA however it is beyond fixing unfortunately...well it can be fixed but I have looked into the matter and the whole thing needs to be rebuilt and made exact as it does not take much to upset the system.....the gate motor system really needs things to be spot on because deviation from square manifests in the gear not meshing with the track...thanks for your input and you have inspired me to clean the tracks and lubricate the wheels.

alex

[LonelySpoon]

Hi Alex,

I've been a bit quiet in your thread for a bit, dealing with minor health issues myself (runaway heart rate in particular, probably thyroid) and caring for my partner (she's had a knee replacement). Nothing in your league though.

Anyway, if the tracks are out of parallel now, most likely cause, not having seen things, is frame shift- just my guess.

If you can't shift the tracks slightly that's a bummer.

I've also been watching your journey in this project as it looks like my big dome observatory will have to give way to something smaller not far off, and a ROR seems to be in the offing.

So, take heart in thinking that, if nothing else, you can serve as a bad example for others!:D

Take care, mate!

Neville
LSO

[JA]

Hi Neville,
Also get checked for your magnesium levels as that can be a factor too.

Best
JA

[LonelySpoon]

Thanks JA,
Dr had a full blood scan done, still awaiting results. Given how slack I can be about personal diet care, it's also on the cards!

Neville
LSO

[xelasnave]

You guys make me feel great and lucky that I am so healthy and fit...

I take 10 tablets a day...besides the cancer specific meds they sneaked in magnesium and calcium cause they think I dont have the sense to manage things..good because they are right..but once I would get raised eye brows from medics when I said I took no pills..you could see them thinking.."that's unusual for such an old bloke"...

I moved the 80 mm outside to a new spot but the mount is having a hissy fit that has taken the shine off things I must say...but the real problem is I have nothing to grab and so I risk a fall..when I get it all working it wont be a problem as the wifi signal is good in the van so it does not need ethernet cable...I put the wheel chair beside it so as to have a seat but twice I have got my feet tangled up with the foot rests and nearly came a gutza..then there is the fact that the pavers sit on gravel way above the ground...but talk about good luck as to where I placed the thing, without knowing at the time, right where the extention lead from the van to the electric shed has a join ..a 240 supply via the sheds inverter, so I broke in and I have power..what luck cause I was thinking move down a battery and inverter etc..thank goodness..just plain good luck.

But as inside the observatory now has only the three scopes set up this leaves one end clear..on one side I put a very nice but unwanted rug with a flash office chair and a little desk thingy that will take a lap top but I place my phone and tablet there..if I ever resolve the roof issuses the piers is still there under the rug..but it is really comfortable in that chair and with the rug noticeably warmer...on the other side I have a desk which provides a work area with a little office chair there as well...that side is still a mess but soon as things are sorted it will become tidy as well as functional.

I have the inverter and battery to manage the roof motor here but the Ethernet magic box is a little further away on a similar desk type thing that also is handy to place the phone or tablet.

I have some painting to do and more tidy up and when I get that finished I will post photos of the finished product.

Looking back over this thread reminds me of all that I have gone thru..it doesn't seem possible I put up with it ...I don't know that having a " never give up" approach is all that smart...anyways I have got a couple of decent images and it sure is easier with just one scope outta there...I had not expected the boon of the extra space as to comfort.


Thanks for following my progress.

alex

[LonelySpoon]

Alex,
There is an old military adage that "the winner is usually the side that doesn't give up first".

You're definitely in there for the win!

My issues are tiny compared to what you've surmounted, you're a goliath when it comes to hanging in there and working though rough times.

It's nice to have plenty of space at the pointy end. Less things to bump into or trip over, for a start!

Cheers,

Neville
LSO

[Startrek]

Alex,
You certainly have come a long way since your operation , multiple trips to hospital and ongoing treatment , you always face and overcome difficulties with a positive outlook.
Your observatory with all its Astro set ups and equipment is a testament to your hard work , determination and passion for our wonderful hobby.
May you enjoy every minute under pristine dark skies up there at Tabby

Looking forward to seeing some photos of your Obs once you finish all the bits and bobs.

Best always
Martin

[xelasnave]

Neville you are far too kind but I sure appreciate your encouragement.

AND I must say looking around the observatory brings back memories of the effort ...mind you I was very lucky to have help from my assistant as that moved things along faster..in fact without his help to get the show back on the road after my opperation it would have been much more difficult.

AND I am very lucky that I had a life where each day was a huge challenge as really winning has to be learnt via repeated experience.

AND there are the little things....every time I look at the floor I remember how I had to lay on my stomach to nail it down and just how painful it was..but a little here and there and it got done..sadly the whole set up is a bit ruff by my standards but perhaps the best thing I have been able to overcome is my perfectionist attitude...once I just could not live with some of the things I have had to do by way of compromise so as to get the job done....once if I made the slightest mistake on a job I would throw it out and start again...but my condition has taught me that achieving a result is paramount and if the thing works you win and that appearances count for little if they control your life.

But isnt astronomy great for the perfectionist needing to learn how to compromise ;)

You know it seems like I have been thru a lot but I always remember that what I have gone thru is nothing compared to others and really I am very lucky in that my pain is manageable...sure the feet could make me cry at times when I try and walk but all I need do is sit down and instant relief ( not like that back pain where it was constant and you could not move) and my driving is not effected in the least so I still get to drive my little sports car...it is so funny cause folk look when I roll up in my little red car with the top down car and I struggle to get out and waddle off with my walking stick;) not what they expect...

I always just think about Steven Hawking and his limitations..he would be so happy to have it as good as I have it.

And thanks Martin for your kind post and I will put up some photos very soon.

alex

[xelasnave]

OK hopefully some photos as promised but reception is not flash so lets see.


alex

[xelasnave]

Sorry ...but it will happen.

alex

[leon]

I'm sure it will Alex, you are just amazing at what you can achieve.

Take care my friend.

Leon

[xelasnave]

The photos disappeared?????
AND I cant get back down by myself cause the drive is so wet...Sandy too me down today in the 4wd and even it had a hard time ...we only braved it to get some meds ( fluid tablets cause my feet have swollen really badly).....and I guess I couldn't walk up the ramp anyways at the moment...patience is my only option.

alex

[xelasnave]

Hope to get a new phone on Monday and sort photos with it a some point...

alex